Vodafone is auctioning the world’s first SMS. The SMS is expected to sell at around 0,000. () Here’s all you need to know about the historic text message.
World’s first SMS is being sold
29 years ago, on December 3, 1992, the message was sent by Neil Papworth via Vodafone’s network and received by Richard Jarvis, during a Christmas celebration. The message is 15 characters long and reads “Merry Christmas”. Back then, Jarvis was the director of the firm and received the message on his Orbitel 901. Papworth, then a 22-year-old British programmer sent the first-ever Short Message Service (SMS) from a computer, and hence, the path to modern messaging was paved.
“In 1992, I had no idea just how popular texting would become, and that this would give rise to emojis and messaging apps used by millions,” said the programmer in 2017. “I only recently told my children that I sent that first text. Looking back with hindsight, it’s clearer to see that the Christmas message I sent was a pivotal moment in mobile history,” he added.
The historic text message is being auctioned as a Non-Fungible Token (NFT) by the Aguttes Auction House in Paris, France. The lucky buyer will be the sole owner with exclusive ownership of the detailed and unique replica of the actual communication protocol of the text message. It can be purchased by paying in Ether from the online auction held on December 21, 2021.
More on NFTs
NFT or Non-fungible tokens are one-of-a-kind collectibles and commodities. They are often digital but, can sometimes have a physical component. They have become a popular investment mode in art, music, and collectibles. Sellers believe that the world’s first SMS will sell for $200,000 or more. However, the revenues from the sale are being donated to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). The funds will be focusing on helping people who have been displaced forcefully.Â
“This first text message received in 1992 is a historic testament to human and technological progress – we are delighted to be able to support the sale of this landmark piece of history for this cause,” said Mr. Aguttes, from the auction house.
