A method and system for routing messages received by a device is described. The router routes messages to applications associated with a provider that recognizes an incoming message type. Providers register with the router to receive messages of a particular type. The providers are prioritized so that the router delivers messages to the providers based on the assigned priority. The router inquires with the providers in their relative assigned priority. The router stops inquiring the providers once an appropriate provider for the message has been found. If the message does not belong to the provider then the next provider is queried. Before delivering the message to the application, the provider formats the message to the specifications provided by the application.