How is A2P different from P2P messaging?
P2P (person-to-person) messaging is one human texting another from a regular phone. A2P messaging originates from a business system — a CRM, marketing platform, or AI orchestration layer like TextConvo — even when the conversation is two-way and feels personal to the recipient.
Carriers regulate A2P traffic differently because the volume, intent and risk profile is different. A2P requires registration (in the US, via 10DLC), explicit consent, and clear opt-out handling.
What rules apply to A2P messaging?
In the US, the TCPA (Telephone Consumer Protection Act) governs marketing A2P messages and requires prior express written consent for promotional content. CTIA guidelines layer additional rules around STOP/HELP handling and content categories.
Outside the US, regulations vary — GDPR in the EU, PIPEDA in Canada, the UK's PECR — but the principles are similar: clear consent, easy opt-out, transparent identity, and proportionate use of customer data.
How do you run A2P messaging well?
Three things matter most: capture consent at the source and store proof of it, honor opt-outs immediately and across every channel, and keep the content useful. Carriers and consumers tolerate A2P messaging when it's relevant; both punish it when it isn't.
TextConvo combines AI-driven conversation quality with built-in consent capture, automated STOP/HELP, audit logs and campaign registration — so your A2P program performs and stays compliant.