SMS messages remain one of the most reliable communication channels, especially when it comes to important notifications, bank codes or corporate correspondence. However, the standard SMS protocol does not provide for automatic sending read receipt —a function that has long become commonplace in instant messengers like WhatsApp or Telegram. On Android, this feature can be implemented in several ways: through hidden operator settings, third-party applications or built-in functions of some manufacturers.
The problem is that there is no universal solution. For example, Samsung and Xiaomi offer their own reporting mechanisms, and owners of “pure” Android (for example, Google Pixel) will have to rely on applications from Play Market or the services of mobile operators. In this article, we will analyze all the current methods - from basic to advanced - and also explain why the read report may not work even after configuration.
It is worth clarifying right away: the SMS read report function does not guarantee 100% accuracy. It depends on operator support, recipient settings, and even the phone model. For example, if the subscriber uses iPhone, your Android may not receive confirmation - due to differences in SMS processing between platforms.
1. Standard Android settings: where to look for the read receipt
In most Android smartphones, the read receipt function is hidden in the messages menu. However, its presence and location depend on the firmware version and the manufacturer's shell. Let's start with a universal method for "pure" Android (for example, Google Pixel or a device with Android One):
Open the application Messages (usually this is a standard application from Google). Go to Settings → Advanced → Delivery reports. Here you will see two switches:
- 📩 Delivery report — confirms that the SMS has reached the operator's server.
- 👁️ Read report — notifies when the recipient has opened message.
Enable both options. Please note: Not all operators support read reports at the SMS protocol level.If the function does not work, try alternative methods from the following sections.
On smartphones Samsung the path is different: open Messages → ⋮ (menu) → Settings → Additional settings → Delivery reports. There will also be two switches. Important: on some models (for example Galaxy S22 and newer), the read report can be combined with the delivery report in one item.
⚠️ Attention: If you use Dual SIM, read receipt settings may be reset when changing the active SIM card. Check them before sending important messages.
2. Read report through applications from operators
Mobile operators often offer their own solutions for advanced work with SMS. For example, MTS, Beeline i MegaFon have official applications that can send read receipts. Let's look at the process using the example of MTS:
Download the application My MTS from Play Market. After authorization, go to the Services → SMS and calls → Read reportsection. Activate the option. Now, when sending an SMS through this application, you will receive notifications when the message is read.
U Beeline a similar function is called "SMS status" and is available in application My Beeline. To MegaFon you will need to activate the "SMS-informer" service (may be paid). Check the tariffs on the operator's official website.
| Operator | Function name | Application | Free? |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTS | Reading report | My MTS | Yes |
| Beeline | SMS status | My Beeline | Yes |
| MegaFon | SMS-informer | MegaFon Personal Account | No (check conditions) |
| Tele2 | Read receipts | My Tele2 | Yes (rate restrictions) |
⚠️ Attention: Operator services for read reports can only work within the same network. For example, if you send an SMS from MTS to Beeline, the notification may not arrive.
3. Third-party applications for SMS read receipts
If standard methods do not work, third-party applications will come to the rescue. The most popular of them are Pulse SMS, Textra SMS i QKSMS. Let's look at the setup using an example Textra:
Install Textra SMS from Play Market and make it the default SMS application (the system will prompt you to do this the first time you start it). Then:
- Open
Textra Settings → Notifications → Read Receipts. - Turn on the switch Request read receipts.
- Choose how notifications will be displayed (pop-up or in the status bar).
Pulse SMS offers more flexible settings. Here you can not only request reports, but also see the “delivered” and “read” status directly in the chat. To do this:
- 🔄 Go to
Settings → Conversations → Read Receipts. - 📱 Enable Request read receipts for all messages.
- 🔔 Set up sound notifications in the section
Sounds and vibration.
The advantage of third-party applications is cross-platform. For example, Pulse SMS synchronizes with the web version and other devices. However, remember: for read receipts to work, the recipient must also be using a supported app.
Install the app from the Play Market|
Make it the default SMS app|
Grant all requested permissions|
Check read receipt settings|
Send a test message for verification-->
4. Features of setup on smartphones from Samsung, Xiaomi and other brands
Smartphone manufacturers often modify standard SMS applications by adding unique functions. Let's look at the nuances for popular brands.
Samsung (One UI):
On devices with One UI (for example, Galaxy S23 or Galaxy A54) the reading report is configured via Messages → ⋮ → Settings → Additional settings. There is a separate item Read receiptsthat works even with subscribers of other operators (provided their devices support them).
Xiaomi (MIUI):
B firmware MIUI (for example, on Redmi Note 12 or POCO X5) the function is hidden deeper. Go to Messages → Settings → Advanced settings → Delivery reports. Here you can enable both delivery and read reports. However on some Xiaomi models, the read report only works for messages sent to other Xiaomi devices.
Google Pixel (Stock Android):
On "pure" Android (for example, Pixel 7 or Pixel 8) possibilities are limited. The standard application Messages from Google supports only delivery reports. For read receipts, you will need to install a third-party application (see section 3).
Huawei (EMUI):
On smartphones Huawei (for example, P60 Pro or Mate 50) the function is called "Read Receipts" and is located in Messages → Settings → Additional features. Feature: only works when sending SMS to other devices Huawei with a similar function enabled.
Why is the read report unstable on Xiaomi?
On Xiaomi devices, the SMS read report function depends on the MIUI version and regional firmware. In some builds (especially for markets outside of China), this option may be disabled at the system level. In addition, Xiaomi uses its own servers to process SMS, which sometimes leads to delays in receiving notifications. If the function does not work, try changing the region in the phone settings (for example, to “India” or “Russia”) or use third-party applications.
5. Why the SMS read report may not work
Even after proper configuration, the read report sometimes does not arrive. Here are the main reasons and ways to eliminate them:
1. The operator does not support the function
Not all mobile operators transmit information about reading SMS. For example, virtual operators (such as Tinkoff Mobile or Yota) often ignore such requests. Solution: use third-party applications or operator services (see section 2).
2. The recipient has disabled read receipts
If the recipient has read receipts disabled in their SMS settings, you will not be able to receive them. This also applies to users iPhone —their devices do not send such notifications to Android by default.
3. Network or roaming problems
When roaming or with a weak network signal, read receipts may be lost. Check the connection quality or send a message later.
4. Conflict with other SMS applications
If several SMS applications are installed on your phone (for example, standard + WhatsApp Business), they can block each other. Solution: leave only one default application.
5. Outdated firmware version
On Android below version 10, read reports are unstable. Update the system in Settings → System → Software update.
If you don't receive a read receipt, send the recipient a message asking them to enable this feature in their SMS settings. Often the problem is solved by mutual configuration on both devices.
6. Alternative methods of SMS read confirmation
If standard methods do not work, consider alternative options:
1. Using instant messengers
Replace SMS with messengers with read receipts: WhatsApp, Telegram or Viber. All of them show the "read" status for free. Disadvantage: the recipient also needs to install the application.
2. Mass SMS mailing services
For business tasks (for example, mailing to clients), use services like SMS.ru or TurboSMS. They provide delivery and read reports for an additional fee.
3. USSD commands for checking status
Some operators allow you to check the status of SMS via USSD commands. For example, y MegaFon is *105#, y Beeline — *110*09#. Send a command after sending the SMS to find out if the message was received.
4. Email instead of SMS
If the recipient has access to email, send the message by mail. Most email clients (for example Gmail) show when the letter has been read.
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Messengers | Free, reliable, cross-platform | Requires installation of the application on the recipient |
| Mail mailing services | Reading reports, bulk sending | Paid, complex for personal use |
| USSD commands | Fast, without Internet | Does not work for all operators |
| Universal, with read receipts | Less responsive than SMS |
7. Security and Privacy: What You Need to Know
SMS read receipts are convenient, but raise privacy concerns. Here's what to consider:
1. Who sees your reports
When you request a read receipt, the operator or application records that you sent an SMS and received a confirmation. This data can be stored in the operator’s logs (usually up to 6 months).
2. Risks when using third-party applications
Applications like Pulse SMS or Textra require access to your messages. Before installation, check:
- 🔍 Reputation of the developer (reviews, rating in Play Market).
- 📋 Privacy Policy (what happens to your data).
- 🔒 Availability of encryption (for example, Signal encrypts messages, and Textra —no).
3. How to disable read receipts for yourself
If you do not want senders to know when you have read their SMS, disable the function in settings:
- On Samsung:
Messages → Settings → Read Receipts(disable). - On Xiaomi:
Messages → Settings → Delivery reports(disable "Read Receipt"). - V Textra:
Settings → Notifications → Read reports(disable "Send reports").
⚠️ Attention: Some banks and services (for example, SberBank or Government services) can block SMS with read receipt requests. If you do not receive confirmation codes, temporarily disable this feature.
SMS read reports are convenient, but are not a guarantee. For critical messages (for example, with bank codes), it is better to use alternative communication channels or request confirmation from the recipient personally.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about SMS read reports
Is it possible to receive a read report for an SMS sent to an iPhone?
No if the recipient uses the standard application Messages on iPhone. iOS does not support read receipts for SMS at the protocol level. However, if you send a message via iMessage (blue bubbles), the "read" status will be visible.
Is the "read report" service paid by operators?
Most operators (for example, MTS or Beeline) this function is free. However, some tariffs may limit the number of SMS with reports. U MegaFon the "SMS-informer" service may be paid - check the conditions in your personal account.
Why does the read receipt come with delay?
Delays are related to the operation of the operator’s SMS center. On average, notifications arrive within 5–30 minutes. If more time has passed, check:
- The availability of the recipient's network.
- The settings of his phone (reports may be disabled).
- The status of the operator's SMS center (sometimes there are technical failures).
Is it possible to enable read receipts for group SMS?
No, read receipts only work for individual messages. For group correspondence, use instant messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram), where you can see who has read the message.
How can I check if my operator supports read receipts?
Send a test SMS to yourself with a read receipt enabled. If the notification has arrived, the function is supported. You can also check the information in the operator’s technical support or on its official website.