.SMS File Extension
Sega Master System ROM
| Developer | N/A |
| Popularity | |
| Category | Game Files |
| Format | .SMS |
| Cross Platform | Update Soon |
What is an SMS file?
.SMS file extension is primarily associated with ‘Short Message Service’ messages, commonly known as text messages in mobile telephony. .SMS files typically contain text messages that have been exported or backed up from a mobile device.
These files allow for the storage, archiving, or transfer of text messages from one device to another, providing a convenient way to save important conversations or transfer them to different devices or platforms.
More Information.
Originally, SMS was designed to send messages up to 160 characters in length over the mobile network. As mobile phones evolved, so did the need for managing and storing these messages outside the devices. The .SMS file extension was created as a solution for storing these messages in a standardized format.
Initially, the primary purpose of .SMS files were to back up text messages to prevent loss due to device failures, accidental deletions, or for transferring messages when switching to a new phone.
Origin Of This File.
The origin of .SMS files are closely tied to the development and proliferation of mobile communication technology.
SMS technology was developed in the Franco-German GSM cooperation in 1984 by Friedhelm Hillebrand and Bernard Ghillebaert.
The concept of .SMS files as a file format for storing SMS messages on a device or computer system came later as mobile phones and personal computers became more interconnected, and users sought ways to save, back up, and manage their text messages independently of their mobile devices.
File Structure Technical Specification.
.SMS files are typically plain text files or use a standardized XML format. The structure of an .SMS file may vary depending on the software used to create it but generally contains:
- Header Information: Details about the sender, receiver, and the time the message was sent.
- Message Body: The actual content of the SMS message.
- Metadata: Additional information such as message status (sent, received, pending), encoding details, and potentially multimedia content in the case of MMS integration.
How to Convert the File?
Converting .SMS files generally involve transforming the messages from the native .SMS format into a more universally readable or usable format, such as TXT, CSV, or PDF. Here’s how you can convert .SMS files:
Choose a Conversion Tool:
- Identify a reliable conversion software or online service that supports the .SMS file format. Examples include SMS Backup & Restore, iExplorer, and online conversion tools.
Install and Open the Conversion Software:
- Download and install the chosen software. Open the program and navigate to the section for importing or opening the .SMS file.
Import the .SMS File:
- Use the software’s import function to load the .SMS file. Ensure the file is intact and not corrupted.
Set Conversion Preferences:
- Select the output format (e.g., CSV, TXT, PDF) and specify any particular options, such as date range, sender/recipient filter, or message selection.
Convert and Save the File:
- Initiate the conversion process. Once converted, save the new file in your desired location. Ensure the data integrity by checking if the messages are correctly converted.
Advantages And Disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Data Portability: .SMS files allow users to transfer their text messages from one device to another, regardless of the device’s make or model.
- Backup: Provides a means to securely back up important messages, preserving them outside the mobile device.
- Archival: Users can keep a historical record of their communications for personal or legal purposes.
Disadvantages:
- Fragmentation: Different devices and backup software may produce .SMS files in slightly different formats, leading to compatibility issues.
- Security: If not properly encrypted or secured, .SMS files can be a source of data leakage, as they may contain sensitive personal information.
- Limited Multimedia Support: While .SMS files are great for text, but they may not always support multimedia content sent via MMS, depending on the backup solution used.
How to Open SMS?
Open In Windows
Text Editors:
- Use built-in text editors like Notepad or Notepad++ to open and view the contents of .SMS files if they are in plain text or XML format.
Dedicated Applications:
- Use specialized software like Microsoft SMS Sender, iExplorer, or MyPhoneExplorer to manage and view .SMS files.
Open In Linux
Standard Text Editors:
- Utilize text editors like Gedit, Nano, or Vim to open and read .SMS files.
Conversion Tools:
- Use conversion tools or scripts compatible with Linux to convert .SMS files into more accessible formats if necessary.
Open In MAC
Text Editors:
- Open .SMS files using TextEdit or other advanced text editors like Sublime Text or Atom.
Third-Party Applications:
- Use macOS-compatible third-party applications like iExplorer or PhoneView for a more integrated experience in managing .SMS files.
Open In Android
SMS Backup & Restore Apps:
- Use apps like SMS Backup & Restore to import .SMS files and restore messages to your messaging app.
File Managers:
- Use a robust file manager to navigate to the .SMS file and open it as a text or XML file (if the format is supported).
Open In IOS
Third-Party Applications:
- Use applications like iExplorer or AnyTrans that are designed to manage iOS data. These tools can help you import .SMS files to your iPhone and convert them into a readable format.
iTunes or Finder (for macOS Catalina and later):
- Use iTunes (for Windows or macOS Mojave and earlier) or Finder (for macOS Catalina and later) to back up and manage .SMS files, although direct opening and viewing might be limited.
