The 10 Proven Best Free Mobile Messaging Apps
Developers the world over are constantly innovating. They design and develop messaging apps that let us stay connected conveniently to each other in this fast-paced modern world. Most of these apps require you to subscribe or pay to download and install. Quite a good number though are available absolutely free-of-charge.
We are going to highlight, and briefly explain, our selection of the top ten best free mobile messaging apps as of the year 2018. These apps generally let users make free voice and video calls, share instant messages, photos, and even text messages. We hope this will help you get started hassle-free. A selection of the 10 proven best free mobile messaging Apps.
#1: WhatsApp
This is perhaps the king of mobile messaging apps. It was jointly developed by Brian Acton and Jan Kuom. The app was taken over by Facebook Inc. in February 2014. It presently boasts of over 1.5 billion total users who are spread out in over 180 countries. It is also visited by 450 million users monthly and 315 million users daily.
The app basically lets users send each other instant messages, make video and voices calls, and send free text messages among other features. It does have a payment option which, at the moment, is limited to India alone. This is the WhatsApp Pay feature. All the transactions are processed by the Unified Payments Interface.
#2: Facebook Messenger
Closely trailing WhatsApp is the Facebook Messenger. As the name suggests, it was indeed developed by and is owned by Facebook Incorporated. It boasts 1.4 billion active users as of December 2017. It is presently installed on 87.5% of all Android devices in circulation. It does have a payment option which is still in beta version at the moment.
This messaging app enables two Facebook users to chat, exchange files and photos, make video calls, and even send each other text messages. It does not require the subscribers to share their telephone contacts as each user logs in with his Facebook username.
#3: WeChat
WeChat stands apart from the top messaging apps in that it originates from the most unlikely location - China. By the close of the year 2017, it had around 963 million monthly active users. It is basically a social chatting tool that lets its users chat freely with their friends. It also has a friend-finder tool which enables you to track the location of your contacts via the GPRS functionality.
It does support a range of payment options. These include Native In-App Payments, QR Code, Quick Pay, and In-App Web-Based. Because of this, it brings along the benefit of utmost convenience to its users.
#4: Telegram
This Russian-developed instant messaging app is cloud-based. This simply means that it stores all the conversations, files, and data in a cloud. It thereafter avails this data to its users regardless of their precise locations on the globe. It grants its users the ability to send instant messages, exchange photos, files, videos, audio, and stickers.
At the moment, it has 180 million active users globally. The app has variants that are compatible with various operating systems and platforms. Among these are iOS, Android, MacOS, Windows Phone, Linux, and Windows NT.
It also has a payment option. This option basically acts as an intermediary between the end user-payer, the bot developer, and their preferred payment platform.
#5: Snapchat
In sharp contrast to other mobile messaging apps, Snapchat is multimedia. This simply means that it handles and transfers files of various formats and types. It lets users chat instantly, share files and photos, and hold live video conferencing, among others.
It had a whopping 187 million daily users as of the end of 2017. It is also available in 22 languages and is mainly popular among North American and European teens.
Other than sending each other messages, the app also allows users to send money to one another. The money is relayed by use of Square Cash's email payment platform.
#6: Line
Unlike most other mobile messaging apps that are restricted to mobile devices, Line accommodates several electronics. It can work well via cellphones, personal computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. It is free-of-charge and commands an active user base of about 217 million people. It is mainly restricted to Asia though.
With this app, users can chat; make conference voice and video calls, exchange photos and stickers, and even play games! It does have a payment platform called LINE Pay. This provides a secure and trustworthy payment service.
#7: KIK
Developed by the Canadian company, KIK Interactive, this software is a freeware instant messaging mobile app. It is available free-of-charge via the iOS and Android operating systems. It is also free to operate as it utilizes your smartphone's data plan or the Wi-Fi connectivity to send and receive mobile web pages, instant messages, videos, photos, and sketches.
In the year-ended 2017, it had 300 million active users. It is especially popular among US teens. The app launched its own digital currency called Kin. With this currency, users will be able to earn and buy items from inside the app.
#8: IMO
IMO supports and works well alongside other big instant messaging names like Yahoo!, AIM, Google Talk, Facebook Chat, and MSN Messenger. It basically lets you chat instantly with all your contacts in the aforementioned social networking sites. This saves you a great deal of time and effort as it absolves you from the need to log in to those sites separately.
Other than sending and receiving instant messages, the app also lets users make and receive video and voice calls, for free! At the end of 2017, the app had been downloaded 500 million times especially by the younger range of teenagers.
#9: Viber
Founded in 2003, this social chatting app bears several similarities with most other mobile messaging apps. It is cross-platform in that it can work well across several operating systems and platforms. Examples of these are iOS, Microsoft Windows, Android, Linux, and MacOS. It had a whopping 980 million registered users worldwide as of the year-ended 2017.
Apart from merely chatting, the app also enables its users to make phone calls to each other, absolutely free! Other than that, it also enables users to exchange media - like images and video records. It has no payment platform of its own.
#10: Kakaotalk
Closing our list of the top mobile messaging apps is this free mobile instant messaging application for smartphones. With a pretty small user base of just about 49.7 million10, this app is mainly limited to South Korea and much of Asia. It does have a bright future though as more and more people are anticipated to download it in the future.
The app is loaded with free text and free call features. It also works well across several platforms as MacOS, Bada OS, Android OS, Windows Phone, BlackBerry, Windows, and Nokia Asha.
It also comes along with KakaoPay which basically allows users to pay for certain products online using their KakaoTalk account. It also allows users to safely transfer money to their respective bank account from their Kakaotalk chat. They do this without necessarily using any of their authentication certificate or one-time-password (OTP).
Conclusion
Mobile apps for Android and iOS are indeed here to stay. Moreover, they also play a crucial role in enhancing how we connect to and share with people all around us. You just cannot afford to overlook them at all; not when you own a smartphone.
For this reason, you have to make every effort to download and install at least one of the free mobile messaging apps. The 10 best free mobile messaging apps we have identified and reviewed above will usually give you the much-needed starting point.
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FAQ
What is the best free message app?The best free messaging app depends on your specific needs, such as security, features, and user base. Popular options include WhatsApp, which offers end-to-end encryption, a user-friendly interface, and global reach. Telegram stands out for its cloud-based functionality, large group capabilities, and optional secret chats for added privacy. If security is your top priority, Signal is highly recommended, as it focuses on encryption and minimal data collection.
For users who prefer integration with social networks, Facebook Messenger and Instagram Direct Messages provide seamless communication within their ecosystems. Apps like Snapchat offer unique features like disappearing messages and multimedia sharing, appealing to younger audiences.
For video and voice integration, Skype, Viber, and Discord are excellent choices. WeChat and LINE are popular in specific regions like China and Japan, offering additional services like payments and social features.
If you’re looking for a versatile, secure, and widely used app, WhatsApp and Telegram are great options. For privacy enthusiasts, Signal is unbeatable. Ultimately, the “best” app depends on what matters most to you—whether it’s encryption, ease of use, or specific features tailored to your needs.
The number one messaging app globally is often considered to be WhatsApp, based on its massive user base, extensive features, and accessibility. With over 2 billion active users worldwide, WhatsApp dominates the messaging app market, particularly in regions like Europe, South America, Africa, and parts of Asia.
WhatsApp offers a highly intuitive interface, making it user-friendly for all age groups. Its end-to-end encryption ensures secure communication, a critical feature for privacy-conscious users. Beyond text messaging, WhatsApp provides free voice and video calls, group chats, multimedia sharing, and features like status updates similar to social media stories. It is cross-platform, available on both Android and iOS, with a web version for desktop use.
Additionally, its global reach is a significant factor in its popularity. WhatsApp’s ability to function on low bandwidth and its free service—aside from potential data costs—make it accessible even in areas with limited internet connectivity.
However, the "number one" messaging app can vary depending on the metric used (e.g., active users, features, or regional dominance). For example, WeChat is the leader in China, while Telegram and Signal are gaining popularity for their focus on privacy and versatility. Still, WhatsApp remains the frontrunner for its widespread adoption and reliability.
The best app to send free SMS depends on your location, device compatibility, and desired features. Globally, Google Messages is a standout choice for Android users. It supports SMS, MMS, and RCS (Rich Communication Services), offering a modern, feature-rich messaging experience. It’s pre-installed on most Android devices and includes features like smart replies, emoji suggestions, and integration with Google’s ecosystem.
For users in the U.S. and Canada, TextNow is a popular option. It provides a free phone number for unlimited SMS and calls over Wi-Fi, making it an excellent choice for those who want to save on carrier fees. Similarly, TextFree offers free texting and calling with an assigned number, ideal for staying connected without a traditional phone plan.
Another great choice is WhatsApp, which uses internet data to send messages, including SMS-like texts, multimedia, and voice messages. While it technically doesn’t send carrier SMS, its widespread adoption makes it a practical alternative.
For enhanced privacy, Signal or Telegram are great options, though they rely on data rather than traditional SMS. In regions with specific needs, apps like WeChat (China) or LINE (Japan) may also be the best for free messaging. Ultimately, the choice depends on your location and communication preferences.
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ARTICLE RELATED TO
Comprehensive Review and Analysis of eFax Deals: The Global Leader in Online Fax Solutions
Understanding eFax's Features, Pricing, Benefits, and the Best Deals Available in 2024
Introduction: What is eFax?
eFax is a leading online fax service that allows users to send and receive faxes digitally, directly through email. Unlike traditional faxing, eFax eliminates the need for a physical fax machine, making it a more efficient and environmentally friendly solution. With the ability to handle faxes through email, users can send and receive documents from anywhere, whether at home, in the office, or on the go using mobile apps. eFax offers local, toll-free, or international fax numbers, making it suitable for both individual and business needs.
In today’s digital age, faxing remains essential for many industries, including healthcare, legal, and financial sectors, where documents need to be transmitted securely and legally. eFax's ability to streamline this process while offering additional services like unlimited storage and mobile access makes it a preferred choice for businesses and individuals alike.
This review will dive deep into the various features of eFax, analyze its pricing, and explore the latest deals, ensuring you have all the information necessary to decide whether eFax is the right online faxing solution for you.
Key Features of eFax
eFax offers several features that set it apart from traditional fax services. Below are the key functionalities that users can take advantage of:
1. Faxing via Email
One of eFax’s standout features is the ability to send and receive faxes directly through email. This feature allows users to fax documents from any email address to any fax number. This is a significant advantage for businesses and individuals who need to send faxes but don’t want the hassle of a physical fax machine.
2. Mobile App for Faxing
eFax provides a mobile app for both Android and iOS devices, which means users can send and receive faxes while on the go. This app offers the same functionalities as the desktop platform, allowing you to scan documents with your phone’s camera, sign them digitally, and send them directly via email or fax.
3. Unlimited Cloud Storage
eFax offers unlimited cloud storage for your faxes. This feature ensures that users never run out of space to store incoming and outgoing faxes. It also allows users to easily search and access previous faxes at any time.
4. Multiple Fax Numbers
eFax offers the ability to have multiple fax numbers. You can choose a local, toll-free, or international number based on your needs. This is particularly useful for businesses with clients and customers around the world, as they can choose a fax number that suits their geographic location.
5. Send Faxes Worldwide
eFax supports international faxing, allowing users to send faxes to any part of the world. Whether it’s sending important documents to another country or receiving faxes from international clients, eFax simplifies this process by making it as easy as sending an email.
6. eSignature Capability
eFax includes e-signature functionality, allowing users to sign and send documents without printing them out. This feature is particularly useful for legal, healthcare, and real estate transactions where documents require quick signatures.
7. Security and Compliance
eFax prioritizes the security and privacy of its users. All documents sent via eFax are encrypted, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected. The service also complies with HIPAA, making it suitable for industries like healthcare that require secure document transmission.
8. Integration with Other Services
eFax integrates with various cloud storage and file management services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Box. This allows users to manage their faxes in one place and seamlessly work across platforms.
eFax Pricing and Plans
eFax offers different pricing tiers based on the needs of the user. Whether you are an individual or a large business, eFax has a plan that can accommodate your faxing needs. Below are the details of the pricing options available for 2024:
1. eFax Plus Plan
- Price: $16.95/month
- Features:
- 130 inbound faxes per month
- 30 outbound faxes per month
- Local or toll-free number
- Unlimited storage
- eFax mobile app access
- Best for: Small businesses or individuals who need a standard amount of faxing capabilities each month.
2. eFax Pro Plan
- Price: $19.95/month
- Features:
- 200 inbound faxes per month
- 200 outbound faxes per month
- Multiple fax numbers
- Additional 24/7 customer support
- Enhanced eSignature options
- Best for: Businesses that need more fax volume and additional features for their operations.
3. eFax Corporate Plan
- Price: Custom pricing based on needs
- Features:
- Custom fax number options
- High volume faxing (more than 200 faxes per month)
- Integration with CRM and document management systems
- Enterprise-level security and compliance features
- Best for: Large organizations and corporations with high fax volume and advanced needs.
4. eFax Free Trial
- Price: Free for 30 days
- Features:
- 30-day access to all eFax features
- Option to send and receive faxes via email and mobile app
- 24/7 customer support
- Best for: Individuals or businesses that want to try eFax before committing to a paid plan.
eFax Deals and Promotions
As one of the leading online fax services, eFax frequently offers deals and promotions for new customers. Here are some of the latest deals for 2024:
1. Free 30-Day Trial
eFax’s free 30-day trial is an excellent way to test the service before committing to a paid plan. During the trial, users can experience all features, including sending and receiving faxes, mobile app access, and unlimited cloud storage.
2. Discount for Annual Plans
eFax offers significant discounts for users who commit to annual billing. For example, by paying upfront for a year, you can save up to 15-20% on the monthly plan cost. This is a great deal for businesses that plan to use the service long-term.
3. Special Promotions
From time to time, eFax runs special promotions offering lower prices for the first three months. These deals are typically available to new customers and are advertised on the eFax website or via email marketing.
4. Referral Program
eFax offers a referral program where users can earn credits toward their subscription by referring others to the service. This is a great way for existing users to save money while helping others discover the benefits of eFax.
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Benefits of eFax
eFax offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive solution for both individuals and businesses. Below are the key advantages of using eFax:
1. Convenience
eFax removes the need for physical fax machines, making the process of sending and receiving faxes as easy as checking your email. This saves time and space, especially in home offices and businesses with limited resources.
2. Global Reach
The ability to send and receive faxes worldwide means that businesses can maintain communication with international clients and partners without needing to invest in additional hardware or services.
3. Environmental Impact
By digitizing the faxing process, eFax contributes to a reduction in paper waste. This aligns with eco-friendly business practices and makes it a better alternative to traditional fax machines, which use paper and energy.
4. Cost Savings
eFax eliminates the need for a physical fax machine, a dedicated phone line, and paper supplies. Additionally, the subscription pricing plans are often more affordable than maintaining a traditional fax machine.
5. Security
eFax offers strong encryption for all faxed documents, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected. The service also complies with industry standards like HIPAA, making it suitable for healthcare, legal, and financial sectors.
eFax vs. Competitors: A Comparison
eFax is not the only online fax service available. Below is a brief comparison between eFax and its key competitors:
1. eFax vs. MyFax
- eFax offers more features, including unlimited storage and the ability to choose from a wider range of fax numbers. MyFax has fewer customization options for international faxes and doesn’t support as many integrations as eFax.
2. eFax vs. HelloFax
- HelloFax is simpler to use but lacks the advanced features of eFax, such as mobile app integration and extensive cloud storage. HelloFax is more suitable for individuals who send fewer faxes.
3. eFax vs. RingCentral Fax
- RingCentral Fax is ideal for businesses needing robust business communication tools, but eFax offers a more focused solution for faxing alone, with easier mobile access and better customer support.
Conclusion: Is eFax the Right Choice for You?
eFax is a powerful and versatile online fax service that can meet the needs of individuals, small businesses, and large enterprises. With its range of features, including secure faxing, mobile access, unlimited storage, and a variety of pricing plans, it stands out as one of the best solutions available. Whether you are looking for a simple way to send a few faxes or need an enterprise-level solution with international faxing capabilities, eFax has you covered.
The best deal for you will depend on your faxing needs. If you are new to eFax, starting with a 30-day free trial is a great way to test out the service. For businesses looking for ongoing savings, the annual subscription plans offer excellent discounts.
In conclusion, eFax remains a leader in the online faxing market and continues to be the top choice for those looking for a reliable, secure, and efficient faxing solution in 2024.