Long Numbers (Virtual Mobile Number)

Long numbers allows a wide range of industries to generate large amounts of mobile-originated SMS from the subscribers, such as wireless application service providers, mobile virtual network operators, mobile virtual network enablers, SMS aggregators, e-sellers, advertising agencies, media channels and mobile infrastructure providers.

Long Number vs. short code

Both long numbers and short codes have their advantages and disadvantages.

International accessibility is useful for global organizations who wish to run international campaigns. Limited to national borders, short codes have to be activated in each country where the campaign will take place, which might be expensive and time consuming. For long term campaigns or any other assignment, long numbers are also a good solution, as the number can be assigned exclusively for a long term. The long numbers option can be obtained directly from an SMS provider with SS7access, which is the shortest way possible to have an SMS reception option. To have access to a short code, service providers must enter a bilateral agreement with the mobile network operator that actually owns the number. This process can take time, and potentially cause delays in implementing campaigns. Alternatively, service providers can rent short codes from aggregators, creating another middleman in the value-chain. Premium messaging services are not possible on long numbers; those require short codes and operator agreements.

Virtual Mobile numbers for SMS are available in the following countries (MMS as an option in Norway and Sweden):
Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Baltics, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, Switzerland, Hungary, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Ireland, United Kingdom, South Africa, USA, Hong Kong, India