How It Works
Q. What is Text Messaging?
A. It's like mini-email. Text messaging is a service that allows you to send and receive messages of up to 160 characters from your digital mobile phone. The message is viewed in the display window of your digital phone. SMS (Short Message Service) is another expression for text messaging.
Q. How Do I Use Text Messaging to Get Alerts from HiText?
These messages include a keyword (ONSALE) and short code (80850). A keyword is a word used to distinguish a specific advertising campaign. A short code is a short numeric sequence, usually 4-6 digits long, to which text messages can be sent from a mobile phone.
To participate you would do the following on your mobile phone:
- Create a new text message
- In the "To:" line (where you would normally type a phone number) type 80850
- Type the keyword (in this example it is ONSALE) in the body of the message
- Press Send
After sending the message, you will receive a reply text message. Follow instructions contained in the text message for subscribing to an alert service or redeeming your coupon. (Not all service providers, service plans or phones allow the use of short code - see Who Can Participate below.)
For instructions on how to send text messages from your specific model, consult your manufacturer's handbook or Web site.
Q. Who Can Participate?
If your phone supports text messaging and you use one of the following wireless service providers, you can participate:
- AT&T
- Verizon Wireless
- T-Mobile
- Sprint/Nextel
- Alltel
- Virgin Mobile
- U.S. Cellular
This is not an exclusive list - you should check with your carrier to see if they support messaging to common short codes.
Q. I want to unsubscribe.
Go to the My Account page, select the Unsubscribe link and follow the instructions on the screen.
Q. Is there a cost to Participate?
Most of our text messaging services are free, but as with any text message you send and receive, you are subject to standard fees charged by your service provider. This means that you are charged the usual fee for a text message as per your agreement with your service provider. Some txt80850.com promotions and downloads require subscribers to pay a premium, but in those cases, you will be notified of this charge in advance and will be asked to confirm you accept the charge before you are billed.
Q. I Tried To Participate And Nothing Happened.
We make every effort to provide a reliable service to our subscribers. However, if you are having difficulties, consider the following:
- During peak times of day, it may take a little longer before you receive a response message.
- If you are in an area with poor service, the response message may not be able to get to your mobile phone.
Q. How do I know If My Text Message is Received?
If we received your text message, in most cases we will generate a response back to you immediately. Allow a few minutes for a response. If you did not get a response, consider the possible reasons:
- Connectivity and coverage issues in the send and/or receive process
- Check that your phone, service provider or service plan allows 2-way text messaging across a 5- or 6-digit short code. (Note: Some carrier plans are person to person ONLY.)
- Double-check that you sent the message to the correct short code number.
Q. Can I Test My Phone For Text Messaging?
Yes. Text HELP to the advertised shortcode.
Q. I Have A Prepaid Subscription - Can I Participate?
Please check with your wireless service provider.
Q. I Can Receive Text Messages From My Friends, But I Get Error Messages If I Try To Send A Message To You
Some service providers allow only person-to-person text messaging. Check with your wireless service provider to be sure.
If you have any other questions, please Contact Us.