WhatsApp Messenger, owned by Facebook, is arguably the most popular messaging app on the planet. The company brings new updates from time to time to ensure that it stays on top of the curve. However, not everyone seems happy with WhatsApp. First, WhatsApp now shares user data with Facebook. Then there's the fact that everyone uses WhatsApp these days. So, if you are someone who wants to upgrade to a more secure or personal messaging app. Here is a list of top 10 alternatives to WhatsApp on Android that you can use.
The best alternatives to WhatsApp on Android
Viber
Viber is very similar to WhatsApp as it uses mobile contact numbers to identify users. You receive an access code sent to your mobile phone number by SMS. It will then go to your address book to see if any of your contacts are logged into Viber; you can then instantly connect with them. Unlike WhatsApp, Viber allows you to call users, provided your smartphone is connected to the internet.
DOWNLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAYLINE
LINE stores your phone number in its database where you can then connect with contacts on your phone who are LINE users. One of the advantages of LINE is that it allows you to reply to messages by installing a PC or macOS program, provided that you register your number with an email account. Besides text messaging, you can call other LINE contacts through the app over an internet connection.
DOWNLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAYKakaoTalk
KakaoTalk Messenger also uses your mobile phone number to send you a 4-digit verification code when you register for an account. It then goes through your contacts to find other KakaoTalk users, like WhatsApp does. It is also possible to start group chats, send images or audio notes. Oh, and it also calls other Kakaotalk users over an internet connection.
DOWNLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAYFacebook Messenger
The Facebook Messenger app on Android has been around for a while now and since you're connected to most of the friends you want to communicate with, Facebook Messenger can be a great replacement for WhatsApp. The only downside is that you can't use it to communicate with friends who aren't on Facebook.
DOWNLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAYSkype
Skype recently merged contacts with old MSN or Hotmail accounts and contacts, connecting you to long-time friends. Not only is it a great way to make free calls, it also allows you to send text messages to your contacts. Unlike WhatsApp, you'll need to approve contacts before you can send messages, but its reliability and stability make it a suitable substitute.
DOWNLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAYGroupM
Groupme is for people who want to chat in a group. You sign in with your email, then verify your phone number by texting a code to the number provided. What is special about this app is the support for SMS group messaging. Thus, in the event that a person in the group does not have a 3G connection, this person can still receive messages from the group at a low cost.
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Kik Messenger
You register on Kik with your email address, then choose a unique username to allow other users to find you. The app is very simple and does a good job of sending messages to individuals or groups. There is no calling functionality, but basic global messaging functionality is supported for free on a large number of mobile systems.
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WeChat is one of the most popular messaging apps in China. Similar to how you register with WhatsApp, you start by entering your phone number. An SMS will follow, giving you the verification code. You can then connect your Facebook account and your email account to make it easier for people to find you. Other features include image sharing, WeChat contacts, your current location, and the ability to video chat through the app.
DOWNLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAYTelegram
Telegram Messenger comes with some really cool features. Apart from the usual messaging features of the WhatsApp and Telegram pack, the latter differs from the previous one with features such as super groups of up to 5 people, public channels, usernames, the ability to share files up to at 000 GB. Other than that, unlike WhatsApp, Telegram can be used on multiple platforms at once, so you can start texting on your phone and then continue on your PC. While Telegram lacks features like voice and video calling, it makes up for it with some unique features.
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Google Allo
Allo is a relatively new messaging app from Google. Although it hasn't really had an impact, it is still a viable alternative for WhatsApp. The Assistant integration, albeit in chat form, really enhances the experience on Allo. In Allo, you can use Assistant to get information about weather, flights, news. You can also use it to set alarms, reminders, navigate to places, play games, and more.
DOWNLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAYRead also: 5 alternatives to the Facebook app for Android
If we missed any of the best alternatives to WhatsApp on Android, tell us about it in the comments.
