Picture Messaging (MMS)

Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) Explained

Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) is a text message that contains a picture. 

Not only do you likely use MMS daily with your friends and family, but it can be used for marketing your business as well! MMS is a great way for you to send an image containing the details of a promotion straight to your customers' phones. It's easier than sending an email and can contain more information than a basic text message.

How To Get MMS with my TapMango Account?

MMS is one of TapMango's premium features and needs to be added to the account. To get started you can contact our general support, your onboarding rep, or your CSM directly to have the feature activated or get more information on pricing.

Please note that it can take between 2 -5 days to get MMS activated on your account.

How Do I Use MMS?

Using MMS is fairly simple, with two setup options. The easiest way is with the Promotion Module, but if you want to get more creative you can also create an MMS Campaign Action. 

Mass Promotion

Once MMS is activated, it will appear as a new message type option under the message type dropdown in the promotions flow.

Please note: MMS is not currently available on our older quick campaign flow. We advise using the new promotions flow accessed via the green button located in the top left of your portal. If this feature is not activated contact us for assistance.

 

Select MMS

During the setup process, pick "MMS" from the message type list.

Upload An Image or Type a Message

We offer two options - you can upload an image or type one out and the system will autogenerate an image from the text.

Image Upload

• Select 'Upload image' 
• Choose and choose the image from your device's file manager
  • Supported image types: .PNG, .JPEG, .JPG, .GIF
  • Max Dimension: 3000px x 3000px
  • Max file size: 500kb
• Choose
  • If your file cannot be uploaded, you'll be given an error and need to pick a different image
• Choose to proceed and pick now/later to schedule your message and review your campaign
• You will also be able to send a test MMS after upload to see how the message arrives

Text Generation

• Select 'Generate image from text' 
• Enter your text into the box provided
• Select to create the text image
• Choose to proceed and pick now/later to schedule your message and review your campaign
• You will also be able to send a test MMS after upload to see how the message arrives

Tips for using MMS

Here's some general advice to consider when making eye-catching graphics to send as text messages.

File Size / Dimensions

The file cannot be larger than 500kb and has maximum dimensions of 3000px x 3000px. If you're working with a designer please advise them of the limits.
If you have an image that's slightly larger than 500kb https://tinypng.com/ can compress image files for free without noticeable quality loss.

Making Images

If you don't have a designer or marketing person to work with, don't worry - there's great online services that can help: 

• Canva: https://www.canva.com/
• Pixlr: https://pixlr.com/
• GIMP: https://www.gimp.org/ (GIMP is a feature rich program like PhotoShop, so we recommend it only for advanced users)

What to Include in Images

Always include your logo/branding

While your message comes from a dedicated number, your image should stand on its own and your customers should easily be able to identify your business when looking at the image. 

Keep information simple, and readable

Make sure your image isn't too overwhelming. Apply the same rules to MMS images that you do for direct mail pieces or poster advertisements. The message or promotion should be very clear and easy to read.

Take advantage of color

Everyone loves color! Use contrasting colors to make your image pop when people open it. Make sure to keep things fun and exciting!

Additional Questions?

As always, if you have any additional questions beyond what is covered in this guide, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.