Sms links may open a messaging app addressed to a number. Syntax and handling vary across devices and browser platforms. The important question is always where the link leads and whether the person reading the page can predict it.
What You Need to Know
Do not rely on SMS as the only way to reach an organization. Provide another contact channel for people without mobile messaging support.
Example: See It in Action
Try this markup in a fresh practice file. The next section explains the parts worth paying attention to.
This is a short HTML fragment. To try it as a webpage, put it inside the body element of a complete HTML document.
<a href="sms:+12025550125">Text the event organizer</a>
<p>SMS support depends on the device and its installed apps.</p>
<p>Always offer another contact method.</p>Let’s Understand the Example
- An a element becomes a working link when it has an href. Its visible text should tell readers where they will go.
- A p groups a paragraph of related text. Start another paragraph for a new thought.
- Href contains the destination of a link. A value starting with # points to an id on the same page.
The first example link points to sms:+12025550125. Check whether that destination exists relative to the document. A link changes where readers go; it does not perform an action such as saving a form.
What Should You See?
You should see a link named “Text the event organizer”. Selecting it leads to sms:+12025550125 when that destination exists. Try it with the mouse and the keyboard.
Imagine this link is read out of context. Would its text still explain the destination? Rename unclear links before trying to make them look nicer with CSS.
Try It Yourself
- Add an email alternative next to the text-message link.
- Save your changes, open or refresh the page, and compare the result with the original example.
- Tell a friend what your change did. If you are not sure, undo it, refresh the page, and compare.
Common Beginner Mistakes
- Expecting the browser to send a message as soon as the link is clicked.
- Avoid dead links, empty href values and clickable-looking text without a real destination.
Key Takeaways
- Sms links may open a messaging app addressed to a number.
- An a element becomes a working link when it has an href. Its visible text should tell readers where they will go.
- Do not rely on SMS as the only way to reach an organization. Provide another contact channel for people without mobile messaging support.