Magic SMS by Angelo Carbone

Effect

Magic SMS is a mentalism trick that uses a smartphone to create a baffling revelation. A spectator freely thinks of any color and any playing card. The magician sends a text message to a "friend," who then replies with the exact color and card the spectator was thinking of. The text appears genuine, with natural delays and conversational elements, making it feel like a real exchange. The effect is clean, direct, and leaves no room for suspicion since the phone remains in the spectator's hands.

Full Details

Magic SMS is an app-based trick available for both iPhone and Android. It allows the performer to customize the text message content, timing, and even the sender's name to fit different presentations. The method is straightforward but relies on subtle psychological touches to enhance realism. The app includes built-in mnemonics to help with memory work, though performers can also use crib notes if needed.

The trick can be adapted for various scenarios—casual performances, walk-around magic, or even stage shows with slight modifications. The key strength is its organic feel; since texting is a normal phone activity, spectators don’t question the process.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Magic SMS is ideal for:

• Mentalists looking for a modern, tech-based method that doesn’t rely on traditional props.
• Close-up magicians who want a quick, impactful trick that plays well in social settings.
• Performers who avoid carrying extra props, as it only requires a smartphone.
• Beginners will find it accessible, but experienced magicians can layer in additional subtleties for stronger impact.

Difficulty

The trick is easy to learn but benefits from rehearsal to perfect timing and delivery. The memory component is minimal, and Angelo Carbone provides clear mnemonics to simplify it. The real challenge lies in making the text exchange feel natural—pauses, casual conversation, and avoiding rushed reveals are crucial.

Steve Faulkner notes:

"The memory work is way easier than you think... Angelo gives you a really lovely mnemonic, and it just sticks. The reactions are stunning because it feels like a real text conversation."

What Magicians Say

• Steve Faulkner (RealMagicReview) was initially skeptical but found it surprisingly powerful:

  "I thought people would dismiss it as gimmicky, but nobody did. They were completely fooled. The customization options make it feel personal, and the timing sells the illusion."

• Performers praise its versatility, with options to integrate it into broader routines (e.g., combining it with card forces or environmental cues).
• Some mention the slight learning curve for natural pacing, but once mastered, it becomes a reliable go-to effect.

Magic SMS is a standout for its simplicity and strong audience reactions, proving that even "basic" methods can be deceptive when performed well.