Getting Started with USSD Development: A Complete Guide

What is USSD?

USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a protocol used by GSM cellular telephones to communicate with mobile network operators' computers. Unlike SMS, USSD is session-based, meaning the connection remains open, allowing for a two-way exchange of data.

📱 How USSD Works

When a user dials a USSD code (like *123#), it creates a session between their phone and your application server through the mobile network operator. The session remains active until either the user or your application ends it.

USSD vs SMS vs Mobile Apps

✅ USSD Advantages

Works on all phones, including feature phones
No internet connection required
Real-time, session-based interaction
No app installation needed
Lower data costs for users

⚠️ USSD Limitations

Limited to 182 characters per message
Text-only interface
Session timeout constraints
No persistent storage on device

Setting Up Your First USSD Application

1. Choose Your USSD Gateway Provider

Popular providers include:

Africa's Talking

Easy integration, great documentation

Arkesel

Competitive pricing, reliable service

Nalo Solutions

Enterprise-grade features

Wigal

Flexible API options

2. Understand Request/Response Formats

Most USSD gateways send requests with these parameters:

{
  "sessionId": "unique-session-id",
  "phoneNumber": "233XXXXXXXXX",
  "text": "user-input",
  "serviceCode": "*123#"
}

3. Build Your First Menu

Start with a simple menu structure:

Welcome to MyApp
1. Check Balance
2. Buy Airtime
3. Transfer Money
0. Exit

🚀 Next Steps

Test with USSD Playground

Use our simulator to test your USSD flows without needing a real gateway

Choose a Gateway Provider

Read our comparison guide to select the best provider for your needs

Build and Deploy

Create your application and deploy it to production