SMS or instant messaging? The communication duel in Cameroon 📱💬

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SMS, despite the rise of instant messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Messenger, remains a preferred communication tool in Cameroon. However, with the rapid growth of internet access and smartphones, do Cameroonian users still rely on SMS? Here is what the population thinks.

A practical solution for many 📧

For many Cameroonians, SMS remains a simple and direct way to communicate, especially since some people do not have access to a stable internet connection.

« I prefer sending SMS rather than using WhatsApp because it doesn’t require mobile data. It’s convenient, fast, and inexpensive, especially when I need to send a short message to a client, » says Eric, a merchant.

This testimony reflects a sentiment shared by many others surveyed. SMS only requires a basic subscription to a mobile network operator, allowing messages to be sent without relying on Wi-Fi or mobile data. For some users in rural areas, where internet coverage is less reliable, SMS remains essential.

« There are still villages where it’s difficult to connect to the internet. SMS is the only way to communicate quickly. Sometimes you want to call, but the person doesn’t answer. You just leave a message, and they don’t have to be online to see it, » says Luc, a clinician.

SMS for managing daily life 💼

SMS is not only used for social purposes but also for professional and administrative reasons. Many Cameroonians receive their banking alerts via SMS, which is considered a secure way to track their transactions.

« My bank always sends me an SMS after every withdrawal or transfer. I get notified every time my salary is deposited or when there is movement in my account. It’s faster than opening the mobile app, especially when I’m busy, » explains Henriette, a civil servant.

Additionally, businesses often use SMS to send payment reminders or promotions. A small business owner shares his experience: « I send payment reminders to my clients via SMS; it’s more direct. WhatsApp is not accessible to everyone, and you also have to wait for the person to go online, which makes the process longer. »

Limitations of SMS against instant messaging apps 📲

Although SMS is still in use, it faces increasing competition from apps like WhatsApp, which offer richer communication features, including photos, videos, and voice calls.

« WhatsApp is much more convenient; you can send all types of content. If I miss a class, someone can send it to me directly on WhatsApp. I also find it more practical because with a 100 FCFA internet bundle, you can check your messages. SMS requires spending 500 FCFA, which is not always easy for students, » says Stephanie, a student.

For many young people, SMS is now considered an outdated communication method, as technological advancements continue to reshape their habits.

« SMS is a thing of the past. I spend all my time on WhatsApp. Everyone uses it now. I don’t even remember the last time I bought an SMS bundle. Sometimes, even job applications are sent via WhatsApp. It just makes life easier. Also, I watch movies on Telegram in addition to chatting with friends, » says Charles, a digital entrepreneur.

A question of cost and convenience 💰

The cost factor remains key. While SMS can incur additional charges for international messaging, apps like WhatsApp only require internet access. However, for those without a data plan or regular connectivity, SMS remains the most economical option.

« I don’t need the internet to send SMS. It saves me from paying data fees for every message. But I do acknowledge that WhatsApp and Telegram are more practical for group and international discussions, » adds Sonia, a student.

A significant portion of the Cameroonian population lives in areas where internet access is limited. This highlights a digital divide that still exists in Cameroon. In such cases, SMS remains a necessity for many people, especially those without smartphones or internet access.

Coexistence of SMS and other technologies 🌐

Despite competition from modern apps, SMS still holds a place in the daily lives of many Cameroonians. The reasons vary: simplicity, accessibility, low cost, and independence from a stable internet connection. While younger generations favor instant messaging apps for their enriched and practical features, SMS remains essential for others. Thus, both technologies coexist, each serving different needs within the Cameroonian population.

Your opinions matter!!!
Do you still use SMS, or do you prefer instant messaging apps? Why? Let us know in the comments! ☺️