Getting started using SMS

Make sure you’ve got the latest version of Skype

Sending SMS messages from Skype requires Skype 2.5 or above. If you have an earlier version you can upgrade your Skype software for free.

To start sending SMS from Skype, you need Skype Credit. Sending an SMS from Skype is pretty cheap, view SMS rates to all destinations here.

Open the SMS window

On the file menu, select
Tools > Send SMS message.

Choose recipients

An SMS window will open where you can add recipients to your message. You can send SMS messages to SkypeOut contacts or Skype contacts if they have added their mobile number in their profile. Please ensure that the contacts you select can receive SMS messages.

Hint: You can send the same SMS to multiple people by simply selecting recipients and clicking Add. Please note that you will be charged normal rates for each SMS that you send.

You can also enter a phone number directly to send an SMS message to that number using the number entry field.

Write and send the SMS

You can now type the SMS message you wish to send. The cost to send your message will be displayed in the bottom of the SMS window. When you are finished, click Send SMS and your message will be on its way.

Hint: Recipients of your SMS will see the first 11 characters from your Skype Name as the sender. However, you can change this sender ID to your mobile number and allow recipients to reply to you directly.

To do this, you will need to validate your mobile number by going to the Skype software and click on Tools > Options > SMS Messages and following the steps described. When you complete these steps, you will receive an SMS with a verification code. Enter this code in Skype to validate your mobile.

All SMS messages you send from Skype will now show your mobile number as the sender ID.

Please note: For SMS sent to mobile phones in USA, China and Taiwan, neither Skype name nor validated mobile number are displayed.

Instead, these SMS will have generic, pre-defined numbers as sender ID.