I imagine there would be no problems if we are both on wifi networks at the time we are chatting. But what about when I'm out hiking, or their phone is off, or they're not on the 3G network, etc.? Thanks.
iPhone 4, iOS 5.0.1
So let me try to explain my question in another way. By using wifi and imessage when I am out of the country, will I be able to maintain my messaging with friends who also have iOS5? What are the times when imessage can't send a message and it needs to be sent as an SMS text instead?
the text to go app, lets u even have a number , other peoplecan call it aswell
Right, but what I am trying to do is avoid receiving text messages (since I get charged for them when I am abroad, unless I am mistaken). So I am keeping my phone in airplane mode except for wifi - which means I would not be able to receive SMS messages.
Yes, on WiFi with iMessage you can maintain contact with your friends who also have iDevices with iOS 5. If you are not available on WiFi then their devices, if Send as SMS is enabled in Settings, will send it as SMS.
As to personal experience, while abroad, a received SMS while roaming will be charged. Not sure if imessage works like malhouse is asking, but what if they sent SMS instead of imessage becuase of whatever reason...? I just use Google Voice, it has app, its free, can be use abroad while in WiFi, and you can send/receive unlimited SMS to any U.S. cell number. Did not answer question, but hope it helps.
As long as you have any type of connection, Wi-Fi, 3G, you will be able to receive iMessage. If, in some areas, iMessage is unavailable, they can still communicate to you via SMS (text) messages.
You are correct, if you are on a WiFi hotspot you will be able to use iMessage.
i don't know how it is in the us, but in eu you aren't charged for receiving sms while abroad (roaming).
Assuming they are on roaming they would indeed be charged.
If I'm abroad and only using wifi (no phone services), can my iPhone-using friends in the US send me imessages while I'm abroad?
