Glossary > GSM-7

GSM-7

Author: Anagha Ravi

Published: October 25, 2018

Updated: November 26, 2024

GSM-7 is a character coding standard used for SMS messages that can use up to 160 characters, by using 7 bits, rather than 8.

How Bandwidth is involved with GSM-7

Bandwidth will pass all of the parts/segments using GSM7 encoding as long as there are no special characters. This ties into multi-part messaging which allow longer messages that surpass the range of 160-characters to be sent. The recipient will still get a single message (subject to underlying carrier’s capabilities) and the multiple parts are arranged in the right order.

What are the benefits of GSM-7

There are times when 160 characters just aren’t enough. This is where Bandwidth steps in to make sure the message still gets across. By breaking up long messages that can’t go through in one piece, multipart messaging allows everything to come back together for the intended recipient. Please note that one long message broken into multiple messages will result in charges for each of the component messages.

Where we talk about GSM-7

On our site

In our downloads

The state of messaging report 2023

Terms related to GSM-7

The information provided in this glossary definition does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice, nor does it necessarily represent Bandwidth's products or business practices. This page is for general informational purposes only.