#TechBytes: 5 best messaging apps, other than WhatsApp
When was the last time you sent someone an SMS? Unless you are a bank or a telecom company frantically trying people to link their Aadhaar with their phone numbers, you don't send text messages. Instant messaging apps have taken over the space, and how! But WhatsApp is not the only such messaging app. Here, we list and compare 5 best alternatives to WhatsApp.
Google Allo, the smart messaging app by Google
Google Allo is one-of-a kind smart messaging service by Google which even lets you chat discreetly in Incognito Mode. Relying heavily on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, it gives smart reply suggestions. You may also get other important information from Google Assistant by just adding @google to your conversation. Further, it lets you doodle and write text on the pictures sent in the conversation.
Telegram, for a beautiful secured conversation
Telegram is a cloud based instant messaging app which is amazingly convenient as it has no size limits on media files or chats you send. Moreover, the app comes with steadfast security of 256-bit symmetric AES encryption, 2048-bit RSA encryption and Diffie-Hellman secure key exchange which ensure your chats are safe from hackers. Notably, you can create group chats with upto 100,000 members.
Hike, the homegrown messaging app
Hike Messenger, the home-grown cross platform instant messaging app is bundled with features and is a great substitute to WhatsApp. The app has a huge user base of over 100 million (as claimed by the company) and keeps you updated with latest news, live cricket scores, polls etc. Hike uses 128-bit encryption for all your chats and calls, and has more than 20,000 stickers.
Facebook Messenger, especially for small businesses
Facebook revamped the Messenger app in 2010 and added great features with time. The app now lets you send LIVE locations, allows group chats and make undisturbed video calls. Additionally, Facebook Messenger for Business allows firms to communicate with consumers and thereby improve engagement. Facebook Messenger also provides advertising solutions to reach extensive audience and drive results accordingly. Though by the same parent company, it is a great alternative to WhatsApp.
BBM, more than just messaging
For nostalgia's sake, we have added BBM in this list. However, trying to keep up with the changing times, BBM has been completely refurbished with tons of features like BBM Voice for seamless video and voice call experience, BBM Connect to join like-minded communities and share live locations. The app also lets you Retract messages and express emotions through animated BBMoji emoticons.
