Why are SMS messages not delivered in WhatsApp?

Why are SMS messages not delivered in WhatsApp - briefly?

SMS messages are not delivered in WhatsApp because the app uses an internet connection to send messages rather than the traditional cellular network used for SMS. This ensures that messages are sent more efficiently and with additional features like multimedia sharing and end-to-end encryption.

Why are SMS messages not delivered in WhatsApp - in detail?

WhatsApp is a popular messaging application that allows users to send text messages, make voice and video calls, and share multimedia content with their contacts. However, it is important to note that WhatsApp does not support the delivery of traditional SMS (Short Message Service) messages. This limitation arises from several fundamental differences between WhatsApp and standard SMS services.

Firstly, WhatsApp operates on a different technological framework compared to traditional SMS. While SMS relies on cellular networks to transmit text messages, WhatsApp utilizes the internet to send messages. This means that WhatsApp messages are sent as data packets over Wi-Fi or mobile data connections rather than through the cellular network. As a result, users need an active internet connection to send and receive messages on WhatsApp, whereas SMS can be delivered even without an internet connection.

Secondly, the delivery of SMS messages is handled by telecommunication providers, which charge for each message sent or received. In contrast, WhatsApp does not incur additional costs for sending messages beyond the standard data charges applied by mobile service providers for internet usage. This difference in cost structure is one of the primary reasons why WhatsApp cannot deliver SMS messages.

Additionally, WhatsApp offers end-to-end encryption for its messages, ensuring that only the intended recipients can read them. This level of security is not available with traditional SMS, which do not have built-in encryption features. The focus on privacy and security in WhatsApp further distinguishes it from standard SMS services.

In summary, WhatsApp's reliance on internet connectivity, the cost differences between data and SMS services, and its emphasis on end-to-end encryption are the main reasons why traditional SMS messages cannot be delivered through the WhatsApp platform.