How to Send Text Messages Via E-Mail

Most SMS users know how to send text messages from their phones -- but what if you want to message someone while you're sitting at your PC? Do you actually have to pull out your phone? Nah. Turns out you can send text messages via plain ol' e-mail, as long as you format the recipient's address correctly. For example, if you're composing a message to a T-Mobile user, the address needs to look like this: 10-digit-cell-phone-number@tmomail.net.

For a complete list of carriers and formats, check out this post from AppScout. The only one missing is my wife's carrier, Virgin Mobile. Look no further: The format is phonenumber@vmobl.com. Just remember to keep your e-mail short: SMS messages are usually limited to 160 characters (not words -- characters).