What is A2P messaging

Application-to-Person (A2P) messaging is simply the process of sending a text message from an application to a subscribed mobile user, typically via an SMS sending service. All engagements are initiated from an SMS sender online using an app, and not the sender’s mobile phone, as is the case with person to person (P2P) SMS.

Also known as enterprise or business SMS, A2P SMS messaging can be used in different technical modes to interact with consumers, authenticate log-ins and send time-sensitive alerts. The distinctive qualities of A2P messaging have made it popular across a wide range of industries including retail, banking, media, telecoms, healthcare and travel.

While the humble text message may no longer be the first choice for person to person messaging, in the enterprise sector the use of A2P bulk SMS is skyrocketing. According to a report published by Zion Market Research, the global A2P SMS market is expected to reach USD 70 billion in 2020, growing at a CAGR of around 4.0%.

Still, SMS API integration remains the most popular use of A2P messaging currently with businesses leveraging the technology to deliver automated, event-based SMS notifications directly to customers’ inbox.