Texting Home: Overcoming Communication Challenges In Afghanistan

Texting from Afghanistan to other countries is possible. There are several free online services that allow users to send text messages to Afghanistan from their computers or smartphones, such as SENDaTEXT and FoxText. These services are accessible through a web browser and do not require the installation of any additional apps or plug-ins. They also do not require users to enter the country code when sending messages. However, it is important to ensure that the phone number is entered correctly. Additionally, there are other applications, such as Talkatone, that can be used for texting while in Afghanistan.

Free texting apps

There are a variety of free texting apps available for Android and iOS devices that can be used to communicate with people in Afghanistan. Here are some of the most popular and feature-rich options:

SENDaTEXT

SENDaTEXT is a free texting app that allows users to send text messages to any mobile phone number in Afghanistan. It is web browser-based, so there is no need to download an app or plug-in. It is compatible with any modern web browser such as Chrome. SENDaTEXT is free to use and there is no limit to the number of text messages that can be sent. However, there is a limit to the number of text messages that can be sent to Afghanistan due to affordability constraints.

FoxText

FoxText is another free texting app that allows users to send text messages to Afghanistan from their computers or smartphones. It is also web browser-based and does not require any app downloads. FoxText offers completely free and unlimited text messages to Afghanistan, with no need to sign in or pay. However, there is a limit to the number of texts that can be sent due to the cost associated with delivering text messages.

Telerivet Gateway

Telerivet Gateway is an Android app that enables users to send and receive SMS and MMS messages in Afghanistan. It requires an inexpensive Android smartphone with internet access and a local SIM card. The app can forward SMS messages between the Android phone's mobile network and Telerivet's servers, allowing communication with any mobile phone user in Afghanistan, even if they don't have a smartphone or internet access.

Talkatone

Talkatone is a free talk and text app that offers unlimited free texting to most U.S. phone numbers. It also allows for free calling and texting when travelling abroad, helping users avoid expensive roaming charges. Talkatone supports multiple devices, including smartphones, iPads, iPods, and Android tablets.

TextMe

TextMe offers unlimited free texts, calling, and picture messaging to the US, Canada, and 40 other countries worldwide. Users can get multiple phone numbers and manage them from a single account. TextMe is accessible from any device, including phones and tablets, and it provides free international numbers for travelling or communicating with friends overseas.

Messaging Apps

In addition to the above options, there are also messaging apps that offer free text messaging and phone calls, such as WhatsApp, Messenger, Telegram, Viber, and Skype. These apps often have end-to-end encryption, group chat support, and multimedia capabilities. However, some may require the recipient to have the same app installed to communicate for free.

Using a virtual number

Step 1: Choose a Reputable Virtual Number Service

Select a reliable and trusted virtual number service provider that offers Afghanistan phone numbers. Some popular options include OnlineSim, SMSapproval, and SMSCodes. These platforms offer temporary, disposable, or fake virtual numbers that can be used to receive SMS verification or activation codes from various services.

Step 2: Sign Up and Select Afghanistan as Your Country

Create an account on the chosen virtual number service. During the registration process, specify that you want an Afghanistan virtual phone number. Some platforms may require you to choose a specific city or area within Afghanistan as well.

Step 3: Explore Available Virtual Number Options

Once you've selected Afghanistan as your desired country, browse through the available virtual phone number options. Each virtual number will have a unique code, such as +93, which is the area code for Afghanistan. Choose the one that best suits your needs and follow the instructions provided by the platform to rent or acquire the number.

Step 4: Use the Virtual Number for SMS Verification or Communication

You can now use your newly acquired virtual Afghanistan phone number for various purposes. This includes receiving SMS verification codes from social media or messaging apps, protecting your privacy by not disclosing your personal number, or even receiving bulk SMS in Afghanistan. Keep in mind that some virtual number services may have limitations or restrictions on the number of messages you can send or receive.

Step 5: Manage and Forward Incoming SMS

Most virtual number services provide a way to manage incoming SMS messages. You can usually access a portal or dashboard where you can read the received SMS. Additionally, you may have the option to forward incoming texts to your web application or access them via an API using an HTTP request. This allows you to stay organized and efficiently communicate with others in Afghanistan while maintaining your privacy.

Texting from a military base

Cellular Service and WiFi Connectivity:

The availability of cellular networks and WiFi connectivity can vary depending on the location of the military base. Larger bases, such as Kandahar Airfield, are more likely to have better cellular reception and WiFi access. On the other hand, smaller outposts in remote areas may have limited or no cellular service, making it challenging to send text messages.

Use of Messaging Apps:

Messaging apps that utilize WiFi or data connections can be a reliable way to communicate while on a military base in Afghanistan. Apps like iMessage, WhatsApp, and Viber are commonly used for texting and can be accessed via smartphone or web browser. It is important to ensure a stable internet connection to use these apps effectively.

Provided Communication Facilities:

Military bases typically provide communication facilities for their personnel. In addition to personal devices, soldiers can use computers, landlines, or satellite phones provided by the base to stay in touch with their loved ones. These facilities are often available for long-distance calls or during designated communication periods.

Local SIM Cards and Cell Phone Plans:

Obtaining a local SIM card and cell phone plan in Afghanistan can be an option for those seeking more reliable connectivity. This allows individuals to use their cell phones to send text messages and make calls within the country. However, it is important to be mindful of potential roaming charges when using international cell phone plans.

Security and Operational Considerations:

It is important to follow security protocols and operational guidelines when texting from a military base. This includes being mindful of sensitive information, adhering to communication policies, and respecting blackout periods. Additionally, the priority of military operations may limit the frequency and duration of texting opportunities.

In summary, texting from a military base in Afghanistan is possible but may be influenced by various factors such as location, technology infrastructure, and operational considerations. It is recommended to explore multiple communication options, utilize messaging apps, and stay informed about the specific conditions at the intended base.

Texting from a smartphone

Step 1: Access the "Messages" App

On the main menu, select the "Messages" app. The icon for this app usually looks like a comic strip talk bubble on Apple devices, while on Samsung Galaxy phones and some others, it looks like an open envelope.

Step 2: Create a New Message

On iPhones, you can create a new message by clicking on the icon in the top right corner of the Messages menu, which looks like a pencil on a tablet. On other phones, you may need to select "Create New Message" from the menu.

Step 3: Add a Contact

You can add a contact by either selecting from your Contacts List or entering a new phone number. Start typing the name or number, and the phone will suggest options for you to choose from. You can also select multiple recipients to message at once.

Step 4: Write Your Message

Click on the blinking cursor in the messaging field to bring up the keyboard. Type out your message, and feel free to add emojis to express your emotions! You can also use the microphone icon to send a voice message.

Step 5: Send Your Message

Once you're done, simply click "Send." Your conversation will be displayed in comic-book-style "talk bubbles," making it easy to refer back to. You can also send pictures or videos by selecting the Camera icon.

Bonus: Customize Your Texting Options

You can customize your texting experience by adjusting the notification settings, such as whether your phone vibrates or makes a sound when you receive a message. You can also turn "Send Read Receipts" on or off, depending on your preference.

Texting from Afghanistan:

It is possible to send and receive text messages in Afghanistan. Some sources suggest using apps like Telerivet Gateway, which only requires an Android phone with internet access and a local SIM card. Other sources recommend web-based services like SENDaTEXT and FoxText, which allow you to send free text messages to Afghanistan from your computer or smartphone.

Texting via web browser

Google Voice or Email:

Using Google Voice, you can send and receive text messages right from your web browser. To get started, go to the Google Voice website and click on "For personal use". Choose the “Web” option to send messages over the web. You will be asked to create an account and select a phone number. Once set up, you can access your messages by clicking on the Message icon and start a new conversation by entering the recipient's number. Note that Google Voice is currently limited to sending messages within the US and Canada or to American and Canadian phone numbers.

Alternatively, you can use your email service to send text messages. Simply compose a new email and enter the recipient's phone number followed by their carrier-based email address, which you can find on sites like Free Carrier Lookup. Send your message as you would a standard email.

Android Messages:

If you have an Android phone, you can use the Android Messages app to text from your web browser. First, make sure you have the latest version of the app installed on your phone. Then, go to messages.android.com on your computer and you will see a QR code. Open the Android Messages app on your phone, tap the three-dot menu, and select "Device Pairing". Choose "QR Code Scanner" and point your phone's camera at the QR code on your computer. Your phone will vibrate when the pairing is complete, and you can start texting from your web browser.

Third-Party Apps:

There are also third-party apps like SENDaTEXT and FoxText that allow you to send free text messages to Afghanistan from your web browser. You don't need to download any additional apps or plug-ins; simply enter the phone number and click "Send". These services work by partnering with telecommunication companies to lower the pricing, but they may have limitations on the number of texts you can send for free.

Additionally, if you have an iPhone, your spouse can download the "Talkatone" app, which allows you to communicate over data without any charges.

Frequently asked questions