Unlike a mobile number or virtual number, an alpha sender ID is a text-based identifier (for example, EDGILITY, MyBusiness, or ABC Realty) and does not have the ability to receive SMS replies.

What Is an Alphanumeric Sender ID?

An alphanumeric sender ID replaces the sender’s phone number with a name or brand when the message is delivered to the recipient.

For example:

Using a phone number

From: 61412345678

Using an alphanumeric sender ID

From: EDGILITY

This can improve brand recognition and help recipients immediately identify who the message is from.

Why Can’t Recipients Reply?

SMS replies require a valid mobile number, virtual number, or shortcode for the mobile network to route the response.

Because an alpha sender ID is simply text and not an actual phone number, there is nowhere for the recipient’s reply to be delivered. As a result, most handsets will either:

• Disable the reply function entirely.
• Allow the recipient to type a reply, but the message will fail to send.
• Display a warning that replies are not supported.

The exact behaviour varies depending on the recipient’s mobile device and carrier.

How Can I Receive Replies?

If you need recipients to respond to your messages, you should send using a reply-capable number instead of an alpha sender ID.

Options include:

• A dedicated virtual number.
• A shared reply number (where available).

When using a reply-capable number, recipient responses can be received and viewed within the platform.

When Should I Use an Alphanumeric Sender ID?

An alphanumeric sender ID is often the best option when:

• Brand recognition is more important than receiving replies.
• Sending appointment reminders.
• Sending announcements or notifications.
• Sending marketing campaigns with a call-to-action directing recipients to a website, email address, or phone number.

What If I Need Branding and Replies?

Due to mobile network limitations, you typically cannot send from a branded alpha sender ID and receive replies to that same sender identity.

If two-way communication is important, we recommend using a dedicated SMS number and clearly identifying your business within the message content, for example:

“Hi Sarah, this is Edgility. Please reply YES to confirm your appointment.”

This allows recipients to recognise your business while still being able to reply.

Need Help?

If you’re unsure whether your current sender ID supports replies, or you’d like to configure a reply-capable number for your account, contact the Edgility support team for assistance.