Messaging without AT&T SMS charges?

[TahoeGuy]

Can anyone tell me definitively whether messaging applications such as AIM make use of AT&T's SMS service? I count myself among the many who were disappointed that AT&T didn't include any SMS messages in the new 3G packages, so I'd like to find a messaging solution that won't result in me paying $.20 every time I send or receive a message. There seem to be several messaging applications, but to the novice, it's not clear which will result in an AT&T charge and which are totally free. Thanks in advance!!!

 

[ChazDaSpaz]

I think the AIM client can send SMS messages to other phones and it'll be charged to your data, since we have unlimited data on iPhones it should be free.

 

[theotherrogue]

I can't wait until everyone just transitions to mobile e-mail, then there will be no need to SMS. Unfortunately, that will be a couple of years.

 

[sharp65]

This has been answered dozens of times...but AIM app does NOT use SMS, it uses data. You can use AIM to send free SMS messages.

 

[Djmx]

OMFG Y Won't u JUST READ THE FREAKING FORUM PEOPLE! THIS IS THE 3rd post. Can a Mod please delete this or close this!!

 

[D3lta]

I'm assuming sending an SMS is free but receiving still costs money?

 

[sharp65]

I'm assuming sending an SMS is free but receiving still costs money?

There is a free service that lets you send sms messages through e-mail and then e-mails you there response back so you can avoid using actual SMS's entirely. The name is slipping from me at the moment.