Review: SMS Text utility software

Programs that send text messages from a computer are usually directed at businesses, but this one is also handy for home users.

It’s a simple installation, and once in place, starts when Windows does and constantly runs in the Notification Area.

SMS Text looks a bit like Microsoft Outlook or Outlook Express. It displays message details in one pane, with the actual message below, and a series of folders to the side.

A phone number is assigned to your computer, allowing people to text you directly. You can also reply to these from the computer and SMS Text will import contacts numbers from Outlook and other programs.

There's no way of using your existing mobile phone number though, which is annoying.

A block of 100 messages costs £8, which works out at 8p each. For a block of 500, this drops to 7p each ­ a total of £35.

This is cheaper than many mobile phone talk plans, but considering the £20 initial outlay of the program, it doesn’t look quite such good value.

SMS Text is a handy way to send text messages, but only hardcore keypad peckers will find this cheaper overall.

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