I’m wondering if the recipient gets the message…
Question:
If I’m MMS someone’s contact on iMessage with only their email; no phone number, does the recipient get the message on iMessage or on the email software?
iPhone 13
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AdvisorMP
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Community Specialist
Thanks for reaching out IAmLookingForHelp,
It sounds like you have questions about how Messages works with iMessages and MMS. We can help.
Before we get started, its important to keep in mind that blue iMessages and green SMS and MMS messages are two different things.
SMS and MMS messages are handled through your cellular provider and require you to have a plan with them, and a connection to a cell tower. Typically these are sent to phone numbers, but if being able to send to an email address is an option, you'll need to check with your provider to be sure. (Historically, some providers used an email that would use your phone number in the following format: ########@yourprovider.com/.net and were often used to share photos).
On the other hand, iMessages are entirely through Apple servers. They require some sort of data connection, either cellular data or a Wi-Fi connection to the internet. These can be sent to either a phone number associated with an Apple ID, or to an Apple ID directly. Often, Apple IDs look like email addresses, but it is important to remember that this does not mean they are the same thing. If you message an email address that is also an Apple ID, it will go to the user with that Apple ID. If you message an email address that is not associated with an Apple ID it will be sent as a SMS/MMS and rejected unless this is a service your carrier offers.
You can check out this article to learn What is the difference between iMessage and SMS/MMS?
Hope that helps.
Take care.