Twitter Updates via SMS

You can now post updates to your Twitter account using SMS here in the Philippines.

Now I wouldn't call it exactly free, since an SMS text can cost up to P1.00 per 160-character message sent. Then again, if you're using Sun Cellular's unlimited text feature, then in a way Sun-to-Sun texts will be free beyond the cost of your CTU card.

Globe has unlimited text, and since the Isip.PH SMS-to-Twitter service uses a Globe number, then this is feasible. I wonder, though, when they will have a SMART number to receive sms texts from SMART subscribers.

Here's how to send updates to your Twitter account via SMS (assuming you have registered at Isip.PH):

Just text
S (space) your message

Example:
S this is great! tnx isip.ph!

Globe / Smart / TM / TalkNText:
0917-810-8983

Sun:
0922-837-4255

Tip: Save the number in your phonebook as ISIP.PH

The "I Speak over Internet Protocol" (ISIP.PH) is in beta service at the moment. I hope that when they go full blast, they will use OAuth instead of requiring you to type in your Twitter username and password. They are powered by GiveMeUnlimited, and the person behind this is Erick Kalugdan of InfoTXT fame.

I still need to figure out, though, how to receive Twitter updates via SMS. Yes, there is a service from Sun Cellular that allows this, but I'm wondering if ISIP.PH can also do this. Or is it just a one-way broadcasting service?

What's so great about sending sms updates to your Twitter account? From Twitter, you can update your Facebook status. With unlimited texting (in certain cases), that's an affordable way to keep your friends in the loop, using the power of social networking.

[ First posted on 08/03/2009 by Manuel Viloria ]