TextLimit guides
How SMS segments work.
SMS length is not just character count. Encoding decides whether your text fits one message or splits into parts.
Updated July 17, 2026
GSM-7 versus Unicode
Most plain English SMS messages use GSM-7. Characters like many emoji, non-Latin scripts, and some symbols require Unicode. Unicode messages have smaller segment limits.
Single and multi-part messages
A plain GSM-7 message fits 160 characters in one segment. Longer messages are split into 153-character parts because each part needs linking data. Unicode messages fit 70 characters in one segment and 67 characters per part after that.
Why previews matter
A message can look short but use more than one part if it contains smart punctuation, emoji, or copied text from rich editors. TextLimit flags the encoding and segment estimate before you send.
Before sending a text message
- Remove unnecessary smart quotes or symbols if the message unexpectedly uses Unicode.
- Keep urgent alerts clear and short.
- Check the segment count before sending campaigns or notifications.
- Preview links and phone numbers exactly as recipients will receive them.