SMS Guidelines for Andorra - A Complete Overview

This guide provides a deep dive into the technical specifications, best practices, and regulatory framework for SMS messaging within Andorra. Whether you're building an application, integrating an SMS service, or simply seeking to understand the Andorran SMS landscape, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need.

Technical Specifications for Andorran SMS

Let's start by examining the underlying technical infrastructure that governs SMS communication in Andorra. Understanding these core components is crucial for successful implementation.

Network Architecture and Configuration

Andorra's SMS infrastructure adheres to the standardized framework defined by ITU-T Recommendation E.212. This ensures interoperability with global telecommunications systems. The system utilizes the Mobile Country Code (MCC) 213, paired with carrier-specific Mobile Network Codes (MNC), to create unique network identifiers. This precise configuration enables accurate message routing and delivery tracking within Andorra's telecommunications network. Think of it like an address system for mobile messages, ensuring they reach the correct destination.

Implementation Example

Country Code: +376
MCC: 213
MNC Format: 2-3 digits
Network Identifier: MCC + MNC (e.g., 213-03)

You'll need to incorporate these identifiers when configuring your SMS applications to ensure seamless communication with Andorran mobile networks.

Message Encoding and Character Support

Choosing the right character encoding is essential for delivering your message correctly. Andorra supports both GSM-7 and Unicode, each with its own characteristics.

Standard GSM-7 Implementation

The primary encoding method is GSM-7, a 7-bit character set optimized for SMS. It supports up to 160 characters per message segment, making it cost-effective for short messages. This encoding is ideal for messages containing:

• Basic Latin alphabet (A-Z, a-z)
• Numbers (0-9)
• Standard punctuation marks
• Common special characters (@, #, $, etc.)

Unicode (UTF-16) Handling

When your message includes characters outside the GSM-7 charset, such as emojis or characters from other languages, the system automatically switches to Unicode (UTF-16) encoding. This provides broader character support but has some trade-offs:

• Reduced character limit (70 characters per segment)
• Increased message segments for longer content, potentially leading to higher costs
• Higher delivery costs per message due to the increased data usage

Message Segmentation Framework

For messages exceeding the single-segment limit (160 characters for GSM-7, 70 for Unicode), Andorra Telecom employs automatic segmentation. This process ensures that longer messages are delivered completely, albeit in multiple parts. Here's how it works:

1. Messages are divided into segments based on the encoding limit.
2. Each segment includes a User Data Header (UDH) containing information for reassembly.
3. Segments are transmitted individually and reassembled on the recipient's device.
4. The maximum number of supported segments is 6, allowing for messages up to 960 GSM-7 characters or 420 Unicode characters.

You should consider message length and segmentation when designing your SMS applications to manage costs and user experience effectively.

Multimedia Content Delivery

While direct MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) isn't supported, Andorra Telecom offers a URL-based content delivery system. This innovative approach allows you to share multimedia content via SMS.

1. Content Processing:

   • Multimedia files are uploaded to secure servers.
   • Each file is assigned a unique, time-limited URL.
   • The URL is automatically shortened for inclusion in the SMS message.

2. Delivery Method:

   • Recipients receive an SMS containing:
     • Your custom message text
     • The shortened secure URL
     • Access instructions (if needed)
   • Links typically remain active for 7 days.

This method provides a workaround for sharing multimedia content, although it relies on the recipient having data access to retrieve the content.

Network Infrastructure and Coverage

Andorra Telecom, the sole telecommunications provider, maintains robust network infrastructure and extensive coverage throughout the country.

Coverage Specifications

Andorra Telecom boasts impressive coverage statistics:

• Urban areas: 99.9% coverage
• Rural regions: 98% coverage
• Mountain areas: 95% coverage, facilitated by specialized repeater stations

This comprehensive coverage ensures reliable SMS delivery across most of Andorra. However, you should be aware of potential limitations in remote mountain areas. As a developer, consider implementing delivery confirmation mechanisms to track message status.

Service Reliability

Andorra Telecom prioritizes service reliability through network redundancy and robust failover mechanisms:

• Primary data centers: Located in Andorra la Vella
• Backup systems: Situated in Sant Juli?? de L??ria
• Automatic failover protocols: Ensure seamless switching in case of primary system failure
• 99.99% uptime guarantee: For SMS services

This high level of redundancy minimizes service disruptions and ensures consistent message delivery. You can rely on the Andorran network for mission-critical SMS applications.

Regulatory Compliance Framework

Complying with Andorran regulations is paramount for legal and ethical SMS messaging. Let's explore the key requirements.

Message Content Requirements

Your SMS messages must adhere to specific content guidelines:

1. Sender Identification: Clearly identify your business or brand. Include valid contact information and your registered business identifier. This transparency builds trust with recipients.

2. Message Structure: Always include clear opt-out instructions, allowing recipients to unsubscribe easily. Clearly identify the service being offered and provide transparent pricing for premium services. This respects user preferences and promotes ethical communication.

Premium SMS Implementation

Premium SMS services, which involve charging recipients, follow structured pricing tiers:

• Base registration: ???62.70 (IGI included)
• Monthly subscription: ???31.35 per number
• Volume-based pricing:
  • Tier 1 (1-300 messages): ???0.12/message
  • Tier 2 (301-599 messages): ???0.10/message
  • Tier 3 (600-899 messages): ???0.08/message
  • Custom pricing for higher volumes

You should familiarize yourself with these pricing structures when planning premium SMS services.

Documentation Requirements

Maintaining accurate records is crucial for demonstrating compliance:

• Consent records: Minimum 2 years
• Message logs: Minimum 1 year
• Opt-out requests: Minimum 5 years
• Campaign performance metrics: Track and document your campaign results.

These documentation requirements ensure transparency and accountability in your SMS operations.

SMS Compliance Guidelines for Andorra: Practical Implementation

Now that we've covered the regulatory framework, let's delve into the practical aspects of implementing compliant SMS messaging in Andorra.

Understanding Consent Management Requirements

Consent management is the cornerstone of compliant SMS messaging. You must obtain explicit consent from recipients before sending any SMS communications. This aligns with Andorran data protection regulations, which are based on EU ePrivacy Directive standards.

Collecting Valid Consent

Before sending any SMS messages, you must obtain explicit opt-in consent. This requires a clear and documented process:

• Multilingual Consent: Present consent options in Catalan, French, and Spanish, catering to Andorra's linguistic diversity.
• Purpose Transparency: Clearly state the specific purposes for which you will be using SMS communication. This allows recipients to make informed decisions.
• Business Identification: Provide your business identity and contact information, fostering transparency and trust.
• Accessible Terms and Conditions: Offer easy access to your terms and conditions, ensuring recipients understand their rights.
• Documentation: Document the exact consent language presented to each recipient. This provides a verifiable record of consent.

Consent Record Management

Maintain detailed consent records in your system, including:

{
  "consent_record": {
    "timestamp": "2023-12-01T14:30:00Z",
    "collection_method": "web_form",
    "consent_scope": ["marketing", "notifications"],
    "identity_verification": {
      "method": "phone_verification",
      "verification_id": "ver_123456"
    }
  }
}

Crucially, store all consent data using industry-standard encryption protocols and secure storage systems, following Andorra Telecom's SMS marketing security requirements. Implement regular backup procedures and access controls to protect these sensitive records.

Message Timing and Delivery Optimization

Consider the timing of your messages to maximize effectiveness and respect recipient preferences.

Time Window Management

Adhere to appropriate delivery windows:

• Primary delivery window: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM (UTC+1/UTC+2), respecting local time zones and avoiding late-night disturbances.
• Smart Delivery Scheduling: Implement logic to prevent messages from being sent outside the allowed window.

def is_valid_delivery_time(recipient_number):
    andorra_time = get_local_time('Europe/Andorra')
    return 8 <= andorra_time.hour <= 21

This code snippet demonstrates a basic function to check if the current time in Andorra falls within the acceptable delivery window. You can adapt this logic to your specific application needs.

Delivery Optimization

Follow Andorra Telecom's recommended practices for optimal delivery:

• Monitor delivery success rates: Track performance across different time slots to identify optimal sending times.
• Adaptive Sending: Adjust your sending patterns based on performance metrics, maximizing delivery success.
• Detailed Logs: Maintain comprehensive delivery logs for compliance purposes.

These practices ensure efficient message delivery and provide valuable data for optimizing your SMS campaigns.

Comprehensive Opt-out System

Providing a seamless opt-out mechanism is essential for respecting user preferences and maintaining compliance.

Multi-language Opt-out Commands

Support standard opt-out commands in all supported languages:

Catalan: STOP, BAIXA, NO
French: STOP, ARR??TER
Spanish: STOP, BAJA

This multilingual approach ensures accessibility for all users.

Opt-out Processing Protocol

Implement a robust opt-out processing protocol:

1. Acknowledgement: Acknowledge opt-out requests within 1 hour, providing immediate feedback to the user.
2. Processing Time: Complete opt-out processing within 24 hours, based on Twilio's country-specific guidelines for Andorra.
3. Confirmation: Send a confirmation message in the user's preferred language, confirming their opt-out request.
4. Database Update: Update your central database immediately to prevent further messages from being sent to the opted-out number.
5. Audit Trail: Maintain a comprehensive audit trail of all opt-out activities for compliance and troubleshooting.

This structured protocol ensures prompt and efficient handling of opt-out requests.

Registry Verification System

Implement a system for verifying numbers against the do-not-contact registry.

Verification Workflow

1. Initial Registry Check: Screen numbers against the current do-not-contact registry before sending any messages. Document the verification timestamp and results. Flag any matching numbers in your database.

2. Ongoing Monitoring: Perform monthly registry updates to stay current with changes. Implement automated verification systems for efficiency. Maintain comprehensive audit trails of all verification activities.

Documentation Requirements

Maintain detailed records of all verification activities:

{
  "verification_record": {
    "number": "+376XXXXXXX",
    "check_date": "2023-12-01",
    "registry_version": "2023.12",
    "status": "cleared",
    "next_check_date": "2024-01-01"
  }
}

This structured approach ensures that you avoid contacting numbers registered on the do-not-contact list.

Conclusion

This comprehensive guide has equipped you with the essential knowledge and best practices for navigating the Andorran SMS landscape. By understanding the technical specifications, regulatory framework, and practical implementation guidelines, you can develop and deploy compliant and effective SMS applications in Andorra. Remember to prioritize user consent, respect local regulations, and continuously optimize your messaging strategies for optimal performance. As a final note, remember that while Andorra supports concatenated messages (allowing longer messages to be split and reassembled), two-way SMS is not currently supported by Twilio (as per the provided additional context). Also, be aware that Andorra Telecom provides excellent indoor mobile coverage solutions for businesses, ensuring reliable connectivity within buildings. This is a valuable consideration when planning your SMS strategy.