Simplified doc page for SMS Messaging Requirements #821
Description
A single landing page that answers "why can't I use my number for SMS and how do I fix it?" Linked from the dashboard phone number search UI.
Audience: New SignalWire users trying to purchase a phone number and discovered SMS is disabled. Assumes no prior knowledge of TCR, 10DLC, or carrier compliance requirements.
What it should cover
- Why SMS is disabled by default. Carrier compliance requirement, not a SignalWire policy, or something user did wrong.
- Two paths, clearly distinguished
- Path 1 — Testing only (Platform Free Trial) For users who just want to verify the API works before committing to registration. Steps: verify a personal mobile number in the Messaging Campaigns dashboard, then purchase a SignalWire number. Covers the constraints upfront: one-to-one sending only, 200 messages/day, [SignalWire Free Trial] prefix on all messages, no SWML/LaML/Call Flow Builder support. Explicit warning that PFT is single-use — releasing either number ends the trial permanently.
- Path 2 — Production (TCR Registration) Summarize the three steps with links to the full registration guide.
- One short paragraph noting that toll-free numbers and short codes go through different, separate processes with link to the relevant guides.
- What to do if you're stuck (support?)
- Specifically note that if a user accidentally ended their PFT by releasing a number, they need to complete TCR registration — there's no way to restore PFT.
Users hitting this page are blocked and frustrated. Lead with the fix, not the explanation.