5 Awesome Apps for Instant Messaging

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Noha Hariri
Apr 21 2014
Apps
5 Awesome Apps for Instant Messaging
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Instant messaging mobile apps, also known as 'texting apps', are exponentially growing to compete with social media and PC instant messaging services. There are countless apps out there. We chose 5 can’t miss instant messaging apps out there...

1. WhatsApp

WhatsApp is probably the most famous, most used texting app in the world. It's free for the first year (then it's $0.99 per year), and available on iOS, Android (tablets are not supported), BlackBerry, Nokia and Windows Phone. You can use the app to exchange text messages, with individuals or in group chats, and share photos, videos and location. Facebook had recently acquired WhatsApp in one of the most talked about deals.

2. Viber

Viber is a very popular, free app that isn't limited to text messages. You can use this app to make free voice calls, locally and internationally, via the internet (3G or WiFi). You can also send photos, videos and location. Like WhatsApp, Viber does not require registrations, passwords or invitations—only your phone number. Viber is available on iOS, Android, Windows Phone, BlackBerry, Bada (text and photo messages only) and Nokia (text and photo messages only).

3. Snapchat

Snapchat offers a different way of chatting. You take "snaps", as the app calls pictures and videos captured with it, and then send them to a specific user, or group. You can add text captions or drawings. But the key feature of the app is that you can set a time for a snap to self-destruct, i.e. be permanently deleted from the app's servers and other users' phones. The only way to keep a snap stored is for the receiver to grab a screenshot. In case that happens, the app notifies you immediately, to address any privacy concerns. Snapchat is available on iOS and Android.

4. FireChat

FireChat is a very important app because it doesn't require an internet connection. You can use this app, on iOS or Android, to exchange text messages and share photos with users who are within 30 feet (about 10m) from your location. The more users there are, the bigger the network—users' phones and tablets serve as mini servers, connecting the large network. Users can chat anonymously; the app doesn't require signing up or any personal information. The app lets users explore popular topics, using the "Everyone" option; or have conversation with close people, using the "Nearby" option. To achieve all those features, the app uses Framework Multipeer Connectivity technology.

5. Tawkers

Tawkers is a new app for iOS that allows users to turn their text messages into a public forum, where many users can view and participate in a conversation between two people. Conversations/forums include important and entertaining subjects. You can register with your Facebook account or email address. After the profile is ready, you can follow other Tawkers members, just like you do on social media. Tawkers has a notification page that lists activities, such as joint invitations to participate in a 'tawk' or new followers.