Bulk SMS is a term used to describe a large volume of text messages (SMS) that is sent over the internet to many mobile phone numbers at once. These text messages are usually delivered instantaneously to the recipients phones within seconds or minutes depending on the volume sent.
Text messages sent using bulk SMS can be the same as the SMS you send with a mobile phone, but there is one major difference. And that is with bulk SMS you can choose an alphanumeric sender name which will be shown on the screen of the receiving phone.
So for example, you can send a message with your name and even though your number is not saved on the recipients phone, your name will appear as the sender of the message. Brilliant isn't it?
Now, there are several advantages of using bulk SMS over conventional mobile phone SMS. The main differences exist in the features provided by your bulk SMS provider.
Some providers have features that allow you to schedule a message that will be sent automatically even if you are offline to people you wish to contact. For example EBulkSMS provides a vast array of features that allow you upload contacts, manage an address / phone book, import bulk numbers, and remove duplicate numbers automatically.
There is even an option that gives you the ability to schedule SMS messages which means that you can use bulk SMS for alerts, reminders, alarms, and notification triggers without the need to be online always.
Also, several bulk SMS providers have application programming interfaces (APIs) which allow you to connect and send SMS from your own chosen endpoint be it a game, machine, or even a plant.