How to reply to SMS messages in WhatsApp using its SMS feature?

How to reply to SMS messages in WhatsApp using its SMS feature - briefly?

To reply to SMS messages in WhatsApp using its SMS feature, you simply open the desired SMS conversation and use the standard text input field at the bottom of the screen to type your response. After composing your message, tap the send button to deliver it via SMS.

How to reply to SMS messages in WhatsApp using its SMS feature - in detail?

To effectively reply to SMS messages in WhatsApp using its SMS feature, follow these detailed steps:

  1. Ensure Compatibility: Before proceeding, verify that your device and WhatsApp version support the SMS feature. This functionality is typically available on Android devices running version 4.4 or later and WhatsApp version 2.18.350 or newer.
  2. Link Your Phone Number: Open WhatsApp and navigate to 'Settings'. Here, select 'Linked Devices' and then 'Link a Device'. Follow the on-screen instructions to link your phone number with WhatsApp Web or Desktop, which is necessary for the SMS feature to work.
  3. Activate the SMS Feature: After successfully linking your device, go back to 'Settings' and select 'Linked Devices'. You should now see an option labeled 'SMS'. Tap on it to activate the SMS feature. WhatsApp will prompt you to grant necessary permissions. Ensure that you allow these permissions for seamless functionality.
  4. Reply to SMS Messages: With the SMS feature activated, you can now reply to SMS messages directly within WhatsApp. When you receive an SMS, it will appear in your WhatsApp conversation list under a separate 'SMS' or 'Messages' section. Tap on the message thread to view and respond to the text.
  5. Switch Between Messages: If you have multiple conversations open, you can easily switch between them by tapping on the back arrow at the top-left corner of the screen. This allows for quick navigation without losing your place in ongoing discussions.
  6. Customize Your Responses: WhatsApp offers several customization options for SMS replies. Tap and hold the message you want to respond to, then select 'Reply' from the menu that appears. You can also long-press on a message to archive or delete it, ensuring your inbox remains organized.
  7. Troubleshoot Common Issues: If you encounter problems while using the SMS feature, try restarting WhatsApp or your device. Ensure that both WhatsApp and your operating system are up-to-date with the latest versions. Additionally, check your internet connection to confirm that it is stable and strong enough for smooth functionality.

By following these steps, you can efficiently manage and reply to SMS messages directly within WhatsApp using its integrated SMS feature. This streamlined approach saves time and enhances overall communication convenience.