AOL Indian has launched a service which allows for sending free text message to any mobile phone in India using the AOL IM as well as AOL Mail.  The people to whom the text message has to be sent need not be registered users of AOL.

The process of sending SMS from IM is simple.  All you have to do is select Text Messages from the Actions menu which will open a new window, enter the phone number and message in the new window and click Send.  The messages are delivered almost instantly to the recipient’s mobile phone.

The SMS feature not only allows for sending messages as SMS, it also supports receiving responses sent messages from mobile phones.  The recipient of your message can actually reply to the SMS which will be delivered on your AOL IM.  I tested the feature myself and was able to receive as well as reply to the SMS from my mobile phone.  Depending on your mobile carrier, you will be charged for replying to SMS.

For sending SMS using AOL Mail, you need to enter the phone number in place of email address and the message will be sent to the mobile phone.  Just like IM, SMS sent through email can be responded to using mobile phones.

AOL is trying to attract Indian youth and since mobile and SMS is a craze amongst Indian youngsters, it is smart move by AOL for increasing adoption of its email and IM service.

Head on to AOL Mobile for sending free SMS in India.

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