OMG! 20 years since first text

Single most-widely used application in the world

Updated: Monday, 03 Dec 2012, 7:27 AM EST
Published : Monday, 03 Dec 2012, 7:06 AM EST

(CNN) - Monday is a special anniversary for the communications industry. It was 20 years ago that Neil Papworth sent the first-ever text message.

He had to use a computer terminal to send the message to a colleague's cellphone: "Merry Christmas."

"Texting" had a slow start, but eventually it surged in popularity, especially when it became cheaper than calling.

It is the single most-widely used application in the world; 81 percent of mobile phone subscribers use it.

Now, free alternatives like instant messaging apps are becoming more and more popular, and text messaging is in decline.

--------------------------------------------------------------------
Opinions that are derogatory, attack other users or are offensive in nature may be removed. WTHI is not responsible for the content posted in this comment section. We reserve the right to remove any offensive or off-topic remark or thread. To mark a comment for review by a moderator, click "Report Abuse."