In an age where inboxes are overloaded, algorithms hide your posts, and customer attention spans are shorter than ever, SMS stands out as a timeless, trusted, and effective communication channel.
But don’t take our word for it. The numbers speak volumes.
From open rates to ROI and “no-show” reduction, here are the most important SMS statistics you need to know in 2025.
SMS engagement and response: still unmatched
98% of SMS messages are opened within 3 minutes of being received. That’s not a typo; it’s one of the highest engagement rates in any communication channel. Compare that to emails (which average 20–25% open rates), and you start to see the difference SMS can make.
Here’s what else you should know:
- 45% of SMS messages get a response, compared to 5% for email.
- 83% of consumers respond to SMS within 90 seconds of opening them.
- 90% of messages are read by consumers within 1-3 minutes of opening them
- SMS campaigns achieve 209% higher response rates than phone, email, or even social media platforms.
If you need messages read and acted on fast, SMS is your channel.
What do customers want? Spoiler: it’s SMS.
Text messaging isn’t just efficient, it’s popular. Consumers are actively asking for it.
- 64% of consumers think businesses should use SMS more.
- 53% feel more connected to brands that text them.
- 70% say SMS is the fastest way to reach them.
- SMS is the most preferred channel for things like appointment reminders and delivery alerts.
From promotional offers to support updates, customers expect SMS.
SMS in action: real-world use cases for 2025
1. Appointment reminders via SMS
SMS reminders reduce no-shows by up to 70%. Whether it’s a doctor’s visit or a car service, a simple text can save your business time and money. Spryng was originally founded to combat no-shows in healthcare, and today we’re trusted by leading institutions across industries. With a deep understanding of the healthcare industry, we know exactly what it takes to ensure your customers show up.
2. Order confirmations & delivery updates via SMS
Keep your customers in the loop every step of the way. SMS is ideal for personal updates like “Your order has been shipped,” building trust and transparency. Plus, by keeping recipients informed in real time, you reduce costly no-shows at the door, which is currently a major issue during last mile delivery.
3. OTP codes via SMS
In 2025, SMS remains a trusted and efficient channel for delivering one-time passwords (OTPs) during logins, transactions, and account changes. Unlike app-based solutions, SMS works without internet access, ensuring broad reach across all user segments. With over 90% of messages read within minutes, SMS-based OTPs provide fast and reliable authentication that enhances security trust amongst users.
4. Flash sales, exclusive offers via SMS
SMS campaigns see conversion rates up to 29%. Launch your next sale with a text and watch click-throughs skyrocket. Alternatively, sending a birthday text translate into a 40% increase in likelihood to buy for your customers. Make SMS an ally in your marketing strategy.
5. Loyalty rewards via SMS
Did you know that 72% of customers say they are more likely to join a loyalty program when invited through a text message? Use SMS to boost your loyalty program by instantly updating customers when they earn points, reach a new status, or unlock exclusive rewards. With Spryng, you ensure your messages are read and acted on, driving repeat purchases, stronger customer engagement and therefore exceptional brand loyalty.
6. Customer service & feedback via SMS
Customers are 5x more likely to read a text than an email. Use SMS for support follow-ups, quick surveys, or even 2-way messaging for a more human touch.
7. Emergency alerts via SMS
When critical systems go down, like during the recent power outage that affected Spain and Portugal, SMS remains the most reliable way to reach people instantly. Unlike email or apps, SMS doesn’t rely on internet access, making it the go-to channel for urgent updates and emergency alerts. With 0% downtime in the past two years, with Spryng, you can ensure your messages get through, no matter the circumstances.
8. Internal communications via SMS
Need to update staff about a shift change or urgent announcement? With SMS, it takes just one click to reach your entire team instantly. For example, if a nurse calls in sick, you can quickly message your standby list to find a replacement, making the process fast, reliable, and hassle-free.
Take your business to the next level with our SMS API
And we mean that literally. SMS delivers real, measurable impact:
- Businesses see up to 1000% ROI on SMS campaigns
- Adding SMS to your strategy can boost customer retention by 20%
- Brands that use SMS for promotions see a 30% lift in sales
- Abandoned cart recovery via SMS can recover up to 20% of lost sales
Still wondering if SMS fits your organisation? If your customers use phones, it does.
SMS is universal
Think SMS is only for millennials? Think again.
- SMS has a 90 %+ penetration rate globally, higher than any messaging app
- Unlike in-app or push notifications that can be easily dismissed or overlooked, SMS messages remain visible in the user’s inbox until they are actively read or deleted. This persistent presence makes SMS a unique, reliable and effective communication channel.
- And yes, 90% of smartphone users check their phones within 5 minutes of waking up
SMS reaches people where they already are: on their phones, every day.
Overall, SMS isn’t just alive, it’s thriving
It may be over 30 years old, but SMS is still one of the most reliable, direct, and effective tools in your communication strategy. Whether you’re running a flash sale, confirming an appointment, or following up with a customer, text messaging continues to outperform expectations and alternatives.
If you’re not using SMS in 2025, you’re missing out. Want to see what SMS can do for your business?
Let’s build your first campaign. Log in, or reach out, we’re here to help.
