How to avoid MMS charges
When you send a picture, file or sound clip in an SMS (text message) message, they can sometimes convert into an MMS (multimedia message).
If you’ve used up your MMS allowance, or it’s not included in your tariff, you could be charged extra for sending an MMS. Sign in to My O2 to check if MMS is included in your tariff. You can see how much you’ll be charged in our Extra Charges Guide.
Tips for avoiding MMS charges in the future
If you’re trying to send pictures, files or sound clips, use a service that sends messages over 4G or WiFi. For example, if you have an Android device you could use RCS Messaging, which uses mobile data or WiFi.
Check your device settings as some older phones might convert an SMS into an MMS if you use emojis, for example.
Make sure you’re sending to another mobile number rather than an email address.
Check the number of recipients and try sending individually or to smaller groups.
Keep your message within your character limit, or it might convert to an MMS.
For more information, visit our help article on other numbers and charges, then go to ‘Other non-standard charges’.
Last updated: 07/02/2025
