For years, the amateur radio community relied on the SMSGATE APRS SMS bot to bridge communications between APRS and cellular networks. This service allowed ham radio operators to send text messages to phones from their radio equipment, providing a vital link between digital amateur radio and conventional telecommunications. However, recent regulations aimed at preventing text spam required SMSGATE to cease operations.
Fortunately, a new solution has emerged: the APRS SMS Bot. This service maintains the crucial bridge between APRS and SMS, though with one important change – phone numbers must opt-in before they can receive messages.
Why This Matters
The ability to send messages from APRS to SMS (and vice versa) serves several important purposes:
- Emergency Communications: When you’re in areas with no cell service but can still access APRS, you can reach out to family and friends via text message. This is particularly valuable for hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts who venture into remote areas.
- Disaster Response: During natural disasters when cellular networks might be overwhelmed or damaged, APRS can provide a reliable alternative for reaching people via text message.
- Regular Check-ins: For those who frequently travel through areas with spotty cell coverage, like offroaders, this service enables consistent communication with family members.
The Opt-in Requirement
While the requirement for phone numbers to opt-in adds an extra step, it’s a necessary measure to comply with current regulations. Before you can send messages to someone’s phone through APRS, they’ll need to register their number at The creator’s website. Consider having important contacts opt-in before you need to reach them – it’s better to be prepared than to discover during an emergency that someone can’t receive your messages.
Basic Usage
Sending Messages from APRS to SMS
To send a message to a cell phone via APRS, use this format:
@6785555555 Hey, I'm up in the mountains with no cell service!The recipient will see:
@WX4WCS-7 Hey, I'm up in the mountains with no cell service!Sending Messages from SMS to APRS
To send a message to an APRS user, text the following to 866-352-4096:
@WX4WCS-7 Got your message! Stay safe out there.The APRS user will see:
@6785555555 Got your message! Stay safe out there.Getting Started
- First, identify the friends and family members you might need to reach in an emergency or when you’re out of cell range.
- Have them visit https://aprs.wiki/ to opt-in their phone numbers to the service.
- Test the system before you actually need it – send a test message to ensure everything works correctly.
- Consider saving the gateway number (866-352-4096) in your contacts for easy access.
Advanced Features
The SMS APRS Bot includes additional features like phone number aliases, automatic message checking, and more. For complete documentation of these advanced features, visit https://aprs.wiki/howto/.
While the new system requires more initial setup than its predecessor, it provides a valuable service for the amateur radio community. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, emergency responder, or simply someone who occasionally ventures beyond cellular coverage, the APRS SMS Bot helps ensure you can stay connected when traditional communications aren’t available. Remember to plan ahead and have your important contacts opt-in before you need to reach them!