Google offers free SMS to Globe, Smart, Sun

Google announced Friday that it has launched Gmail-to-SMS, a free service wherein Filipinos can send and receive text messages from Gmail to Globe, Smart, and Sun subscribers.

“We are very excited to be launching SMS capabilities in Gmail Chat today,” said Myriam Boublil, Head of Communications and Public Affairs of Google Southeast Asia.

“SMS in Gmail Chat will bring a new level of flexibility and mobility to Gmail users in the Philippines. With more than 70 million mobile subscribers in the Philippines and the country being the SMS capital of the world, we think this service will allow for seamless integration between mobile and PC communication and make it more convenient for Pinoys to send each other messages,” he said.

Gmail users need only to send an instant message from the new SMS box in Gmail's chat window. Recipients can reply with a text message from their mobile phone (standard network charges will apply), which will appear on the sender's Gmail interface.

The text messages may also be archived like chat messages.

Initially, a user can send up to 50 messages continuously.

Smart, Globe and Sun Cellular welcomed the new service.

"We are constantly innovating and exploring new avenues of communication as part of our mission to put the power of the Internet into the hands of every Filipino. Our partnership with Google is proof of Smart’s commitment to continuously provide relevant services to Filipinos here and abroad," said Orlando Vea, Chief Wireless Advisor for Smart.

"Globe Telecom has always pursued new ways to delight our customers. With our partnership with Google, our subscribers can now enjoy sending text messages on their computers and laptops through their Gmail accounts," said Glenn Estrella, Head for Digital Media of Globe.

“Not only will it add to our robust suite of digital applications that allow our customers to communicate from PC to mobile phone, it will also make messaging from the computer more convenient with the accessibility of Gmail and without the need to install additional software.”

Francisco L. Arana III, Vice President of Product Development, International Services, VAS & Innovations of Sun Cellular, said, “We are pleased to be part of this partnership with Google for Gmail-to-SMS, which can help us provide our customers more ways to communicate and reach their families and contacts anywhere in the world. With Gmail-to-SMS, we can give our customers an innovative way to communicate by only using the Gmail account."