WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps in the world. But after Facebook purchased it, many have started to worry about the future of the app. Now that WhatsApp has confirmed that it will soon begin to serving customers with ads, it might be time to look for another secure messaging service.
Here are some of the best WhatsApp alternatives if you’re looking to leave the messaging service.
With over 100,000,000 installs, Telegram is one of the most downloaded messaging apps on the Play Store. This cross-platform service includes support for group chats, GIFs, file sharing, and more. What makes Telegram a real rival to WhatsApp is its 256-bit symmetric AES and 2048-bit RSA encryption. If you’re worried about your privacy, this messaging app is one of the most secure on the Play Store.
Signal is another privacy-focused messaging app, making it a great WhatsApp alternative. When both sides are using the app, the free and ad-free service uses end-to-end encryption. Signal is still a bit buggy, but it’s open source, offers a modern design, and it receives consistent updates.
Shaking things up a bit, Band is primarily made for group messaging. Although the app can be used for individual chats, its strength is acting as a single point of contact for sport teams, school groups, and more. Additionally, Band includes a deep calendar integration which can help you share key dates and make sure deadlines aren’t missed.
Viber is the secret messenger app that is widely popular in some regions, while it’s almost unknown elsewhere. The service includes everything you might want from a WhatsApp alternative including audio and video calls, group chats with a self-destruct feature, and more. We’ve found that Viber’s user interface is heavier than others which isn’t assisted by the fact that there are sticker packs available as in-app purchases.
Snapchat might seem odd in this list, but it is a messaging app in addition to its primary video features. Like the other services in this list, Snapchat offers group chats, disappearing messaging, and its well-known social aspect. The app’s popularity is quickly depleting as its users jump ship for Instagram, but it’s free to use and includes several privacy features.
Let us know in the comments if you’re using a messaging app that isn’t in this list. Don’t forget to also check out our latest Android app and game lists!