Google's built-in SMS reminders were removed in 2019
In the before times, Google Calendar used to have SMS text reminders built in. Unfortunately, Google got rid of that feature in 2019. Their decision to get rid of the SMS reminders feature for for Google Calendar was unfortunate, because the need for timely, text-based notifications is stronger than ever. In a world of overflowing inboxes, an SMS reminder is a powerful tool to ensure important meetings and appointments don’t get missed. A text message bypasses the clutter of email and delivers a direct, instant alert, making it highly effective for both personal and professional use.
Why SMS Text Reminders?
SMS reminders offer a level of reliability and immediacy that other notification methods often can’t match. They don't require an internet connection, making them ideal for people on the go or in areas with spotty Wi-Fi. The brief, direct nature of a text message makes it easy to read and act on, significantly reducing the chances of a no-show or a missed appointment.
This is particularly valuable in a number of specific scenarios where other reminders fall short:
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For families on the go: SMS is one of the most common ways spouses, parents, and children communicate. It’s more natural and effective to use for reminding family members of school pickups, sports games and practices, dinners, and other family events. For example, a parent running errands gets a text about a last-minute change to a soccer game time, a message that cuts through the noise of their work email and calendar notifications.
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When internet connections are unreliable: In this day and age, there are still many places where data connections are spotty, preventing email or other internet-based reminders from getting through. SMS is still reliable in those places. For example, a technician working at a remote job site with no Wi-Fi receives a crucial text reminder about a client meeting they might have otherwise missed.
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For time-sensitive professional communication: While email is often fine, for people you work closest with, SMS reminders add an extra level of reliability because we are not inundated with SMS messages to the extent we are with emails and calendar pop-up notifications. This is perfect for important colleagues, partners, or assistants where missing a message could be costly.
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For reducing no-shows for appointments: For any business that relies on scheduled appointments—from dentists and lawyers to hair stylists and consultants—a no-show means lost revenue. An automated SMS reminder is far more effective than an email because it's seen instantly. A patient already on the road to their appointment can see a text reminder at a glance, preventing them from forgetting and saving the business a valuable time slot.
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Coordinating groups and events: From sports teams and volunteer groups to social gatherings, SMS is an ideal way to get a time-sensitive message to everyone at once. A coach can send a single text reminder that practice has been moved to an indoor facility due to rain, ensuring the entire team gets the update instantly, without needing to check an app or their email.
The Easiest Way to Setup SMS Reminders for Google Calendar
If you're looking for a simple, efficient solution for sending SMS text reminders for your Google Calendar events, checkout Timelier. Timelier works directly from your Google Calendar with no need to purchase any additional software and setup takes just a few minutes. This makes Timelier a perfect solution for individuals and businesses who simply need reliable, automated reminders without the overhead of a separate appointment setting system.
With Timelier, you can:
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Customize Everything with Rules: You can create rules to specify which events receive reminders, what type of reminder they get (email, SMS, or even Teams chat), and exactly when they receive it. All of this is based on event properties like keywords, attendee response statuses (e.g., “accepted” or “tentative”), and free/busy status.
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Send Instant Conference Links: For virtual meetings, you can include the web conference link directly in the message, allowing attendees to join with just one tap.
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Automate Guest Reminders: Timelier integrates with your Google Calendar to automatically send reminders to your guests, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
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Manage Everything in One Place: The Timelier platform provides a central dashboard to view and manage your reminders.
How to set up SMS reminders for Google Calendar in 5 Minutes with Timelier.
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Connect your Google Calendar
This is done via the familiar and secure “login with Google” process used by thousands of apps and websites.
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Verify your phone numbers
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Create a reminder rule
Set filters that determine which events should have guest reminders and then set the timing, type, and recipients of the guest reminders.
That's it! SMS reminders will be sent when you want them and for the meetings/appointments that you want them. For more detailed instructions, checkout of our step-by-step setup guide for setting up SMS reminders for your Google calendar.
