The phenomenon of SMS messages originating from email addresses is typically due to email-to-SMS gateways. These systems allow emails to be converted into text messages and sent to mobile phones. The recipient’s phone displays the sender information as a shortcode or an email address because the message was routed through the gateway using Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP) and then converted to Short Message Service (SMS) protocol.
This functionality serves as a practical way to deliver notifications, alerts, or brief informational messages to individuals who may not have immediate access to their email. It provides a streamlined method for businesses to contact customers without relying solely on internet-based communication channels. Historically, this process gained popularity in the early 2000s with the rise of mobile communication and has evolved to support various applications, including marketing campaigns and automated messaging systems.