| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 12, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 12, 2021 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Smith Micro Software, Inc. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000948708 |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity File Number | 001-35525 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 33-0029027 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 5800 Corporate Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Pittsburgh |
| Entity Address, State or Province | PA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 15237 |
| City Area Code | 412 |
| Local Phone Number | 837-5300 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share |
| Trading Symbol | SMSI |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
