Text messages are small files of less than 160 characters. Most any mobile phone can receive text messages. Email is downloaded through an email client of an operating system. Those that have a smart phone or PDA can purchase a data plan that allows email to be downloaded to their mobile phones. So, I guess the short answer is you need to have an email client to download email. These are usually found on Smart Phones and PDAs. ----- CathyAnne Murtha Online Access Technology Trainer All Textbooks are 15% off. Use the code 2008 in our shopping cart to get your discount through the end of this year! Access Technology Institute cathy@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx <http://www.accesstechnologyinstitute.com> http://www.accesstechnologyinstitute.com PHONE: (916) 222-0983 FAX: (800) 986-6198