Advances in the internet and mobile technologies have revolutionized the way that we communicate with one another. Instant messaging was the initial form of remote communication, and advances in mobile technologies have brought on the onslaught of text messaging. Both of these remote forms of communication have allowed us to stay in touch with friends, family and co-workers around the world, no matter where they are or we are, but they also have their advantages and disadvantages.

While text messaging is at an all-time high, there are a number of reasons that instant messaging still holds a number of advantages over this popular form of on-the-go communication. The so-called BBM Generation, does still have a bit of a leg up on text messaging.

The Advantages of Instant Messaging

Many companies offer both data and what are called SMS plans. SMS is the technology used to send and receive text messages. More often than not, the most affordable plans now offer unlimited data. This means that instant messaging can be more affordable for the regular user, and even the business person on-the-go.

Instant messaging offers a more realistic conversational style that shows the back and forth between two people. Communication can coincide between conversation participants simultaneously. It also makes it a lot easier to manage conversations that include more than one other person as they can be invited into the chat conversation. Using instant messaging, as opposed to text messaging, also makes it easier to manage a number of conversations at the same time, as it keeps a log of all dialogue.

Instant messaging is also a bit more versatile than text messaging. Most smart phones now offer a platform for instant messaging using the internet browser provided on the phone. You can also use your laptop or other mobile device to communicate. With text messaging, you can only access and send text messages from your phone.

While text messaging is certainly popular and will be a part of society for the foreseeable future, the BBM Generation does still have the edge. Instant messaging is more versatile, affordable, and offers better modes of communication, especially if you need to manage multiple conversations or chat with more than one person at a time. It allows for more realistic conversation, that is instantaneous and allows for a more free flowing conversation.