A couple of days ago I got a text from AT&T, informing me that I could update my carrier settings and use MMS (multimedia messaging service). The iPhone has had the capability since the 3.0 software update was released, but AT&T didn’t allow it until now. Speculation is that they were concerned that the network would fail under the load. It may yet, but we’ll have to wait and see.
You can send pictures, contact info, location data, voice memos and video using the iPhone’s built-in messaging now. It seems that AT&T held back, the thinking being that their infrastructure would be overwhelmed by excited users.
Setting up MMS
Apple posted instructions on Enabling MMS on iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS. The original iPhone doesn’t have MMS functionality but MMS messages can be viewed on AT&T’s View My Message site. Info can be found here. The upshot of it all is this:
- Upgrade to the iPhone 3.1 software update, if you haven’t already
- Connect your iPhone to your computer, open iTunes and check for software updates. There will be a notice of an update to carrier settings.
- Install the update, then restart your iPhone. Hold down the power button (on top of the iPhone) and use the slider to shut the iPhone off. Turn the iPhone back on, and you should be MMS capable
In the Messages app you’ll see a camera icon to the left of the text field. If you don’t, try unplugging your iPhone from your computer, plug it back in, and do the upgrade again. Apple has an MMS troubleshooting guide if you need more help.
Using MMS
First, a suggestion. Try not to annoy your friends and contacts too much. The temptation is great, but try to resist.
That said, it’s easy to take a photo or choose a picture from your camera roll and blast it out via messaging.
In the Messaging App, if you press the camera icon the camera launches, and you can snap a photo. A preview image will appear, and you can either use the image, or re-shoot it if needed.
When you’ve taken your photo, or selected it from your camera roll, you’ll see a thumbnail in a dialogue balloon, and you can type a message in the balloon if you like, to describe the photo, etc. After you hit send, you’ll see the image and the text in separate balloons.
You can send messages from your photo roll, too, but tapping the share button. You’ll see a MMS option along with the email, assign to contact and use as wallpaper commands.
It takes a little longer to send a photo than a simple text message… not an unbearable time, but you’ll notice it.
Sending video works the same way as sending a photo, and works exactly the same way. Recipients who don’t have a 3GS can still watch the video by tapping the thumbnail, and the video will appear with pause and play controls, on a separate screen.
MMS messages are able to be received by anyone who has a MMS capable phone, not just iPhones. Just don’t annoy your friends and especially casual contacts with photos of your kid, car, cat, girl/boyfriend, etc.
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One again, your articles is very good.thank you!very much.
You’re very welcome. Glad you liked the post.