Microsoft Adds SMS to Teams — But Is It Built for Business?

Microsoft has finally added native SMS to Microsoft Teams. Users with a Microsoft Calling Plan can now send and receive text messages directly from their Teams chat window—no third-party apps required.

It's a welcome update for those looking to manage more conversations in one place. But for businesses using Mobex with Direct Routing or Operator Connect, the bigger question is:

Does this feature go far enough to meet real business texting needs? Spoiler alert — not yet.

What Microsoft's SMS Feature Can Do

This new capability allows Teams users in the U.S. and Canada to text any mobile number directly from their chat tab. You're good to go if you have a Calling Plan and your admin has completed 10DLC registration through The Campaign Registry.

It's simple: type a number, send your message, and the recipient will receive a standard SMS. Replies will land right back in the Teams chat thread.

For individual users with low-volume needs, it's a valuable and long-overdue upgrade.

Where Microsoft's SMS Falls Short

As of now, this native SMS feature is limited in both eligibility and functionality.

Here's what's missing:

• It only works with Microsoft Calling Plan numbers
• No support for Direct Routing or Operator Connect
• Text-only — no MMS, images, or attachments
• No group texting, broadcasts, or shared inboxes
• Available only in the U.S. and Canada
• No CRM integration or automation

This makes it suitable for basic, personal use—but not for teams that rely on texting to serve customers, coordinate internally, or manage business workflows.

What Mobex Brings to the Table

Mobex empowers businesses to use SMS the way they actually need it—securely, flexibly, and at scale. Whether you're in sales, field service, or customer support, our solution integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Teams and your existing phone system.

Here's what Mobex delivers:

SMS and MMS support

Send and receive texts, images, videos, and documents—ideal for support, scheduling, and quoting.

Use your existing Teams numbers

It works with Direct Routing or Operator Connect, so switching to Calling Plans is unnecessary.

Group texting and broadcast messaging

Reach multiple contacts simultaneously—perfect for customer alerts or internal team updates.

Shared inboxes

Enable teams to collaborate on conversations using a central business number.

Global texting

Send and receive messages worldwide, not just in North America.

CRM integration and workflow automation

Tie texts into your CRM, helpdesk, or ticketing system—Automate follow-ups, reminders, and status updates.

Advanced reporting and compliance controls

Maintain audit trails, monitor usage, and stay aligned with HIPAA, GDPR, and other regulatory requirements.

Mobex isn't a workaround—it's a purpose-built business texting platform fully embedded inside Teams.

Microsoft vs. Mobex: What's the Cost?

If you're using Microsoft's Calling Plan SMS:

• 200 pooled messages per user per month
• Both outbound and inbound messages count toward the limit
• $0.0075 per message segment after the cap
• Carrier surcharges typically add $0.003–$0.005 per message
• Only available in the U.S. and Canada
• Not available for Operator Connect or Direct Routing numbers

For example, sending 100 texts and receiving 100 replies use up your entire monthly quota.

Mobex SMS Pricing

Mobex offers simple, scalable pricing that's designed for real business use:

• $10/month per SMS-enabled number
• Includes unlimited inbound SMS
• Outbound SMS is usage-based, with volume discounts available
• MMS and global texting are available as add-ons
• No per-user license required—pay by number, not seat
• Flexible month-to-month

Mobex offers predictable costs, more flexibility, and powerful features that Microsoft's built-in SMS cannot match.

Should You Switch to Microsoft SMS?

If you're a solo user with a Calling Plan and only send the occasional text, Microsoft's native SMS feature might be enough.

But if your business depends on texting—for customer service, team collaboration, or sales—you'll outgrow it fast.

Mobex gives you the tools to keep your existing Teams set, unlock real texting features, and scale your communication without compromise.

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Let's get your team texting the right way—inside Teams, the Mobex way.

Contact us at contact@mobex.biz or visit www.mobex.biz

for customer service, team collaboration, or sales.

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