Text messaging

[anthson]

I used to be able to send text messages to people using Cingular's Web site, but when AT&T took over, they shut that feature down. Is there anywhere else on the Web where you can send text messages from your computer for free?

[Gesslar]

Have you tried this?

https://www.cingular.com/support/kno...t=KB63037.html

I do this quite a lot, it's much more convenient since I can -keep- the messages I sent in my sent items of whatever email program I use.

Alternatively, there's this:

"Cingular customers can send a text message to other Cingular customers using My Account. Log into My Account and click on the Go Button in the Phone/Device Box. Scroll down to Send a Text Message."

I, personally, am a big fan of just sending to their phone by email.


Also...googling provided me with: http://gizmosms.com/

[Gesslar]

Further reading: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SMS_gateways

[kiania]

Don't know if you can use it in the States, but Cardboardfish SMS is what I've used in the past.

[Nephrys]

AIM allows you to add mobile numbers and send text messages that way.

[Bael]

Originally posted by anthson
...but when AT&T took over...

Cingular actually bought AT&T Wireless a few years ago, and AT&T Wireless disappeared... and apparently they decided people liked the AT&T brandmark better than Cingular (and I don't blame them, Cingular sucks ass), and they've apparently decided to change back. I have no idea if the current decision is in part because of a larger buyout from AT&T corporate of Cingular, or something entirely different, I haven't really seen any articles floating around on the subject matter (there were tons surrounding the Cingular buyout of AT&T Wireless), so who knows.

[Leshrak]

Originally posted by Bael
Cingular actually bought AT&T Wireless a few years ago, and AT&T Wireless disappeared... and apparently they decided people liked the AT&T brandmark better than Cingular (and I don't blame them, Cingular sucks ass), and they've apparently decided to change back. I have no idea if the current decision is in part because of a larger buyout from AT&T corporate of Cingular, or something entirely different, I haven't really seen any articles floating around on the subject matter (there were tons surrounding the Cingular buyout of AT&T Wireless), so who knows.

This is from AT&T's website:
http://www.att.com/gen/press-room?pid=8094

AT&T Inc. has completed its acquisition of BellSouth Corp., creating a flagship American communications company committed to driving convergence, continued innovation and competition in the communications and entertainment marketplace.

The merger consolidates ownership and management of Cingular Wireless, the nation’s No. 1 provider of wireless voice and data services, and YELLOWPAGES.COM, a leading Internet Yellow Pages and local search site.

As a result, the new AT&T will be better able to deliver innovative integrated services, streamlined customer care and greater convenience in buying communications and entertainment services, as the combined company integrates its wireless and wireline Internet Protocol (IP) networks.

Basically what happened is SBC was already a part of AT&T and owned Cingular in a joint venture with Bellsouth (60/40 AT&T/Bellsouth).
AT&T recently bought Bellsouth (and now we have only 4 landline phone companies left) and is deciding to change the name since ownership is now consolidated.