So instead of consuming minutes in your plan, try WhatsApp. It's one of the most popular services out there and provides you with all the tools you need to chat and share files with friends.
Intuitive interface with plenty of features
In order to use the service, you must sign in and provide a mobile number and a user name. The app automatically reads your contacts list and displays friends that have an account. So there's no need to manually import contacts. WhatsApp can also send messages to the desktop application through the WhatsApp Web service.
But before you start using the app, you could make some account changes. Aside from adding pictures and editing user names, WhatsApp comes with some other settings that can be done.
Firstly, users may choose to grant access to their profile only to certain contacts or they might even block numbers. You can also set notifications and have your phone ring, vibrate or blink when you receive a message.
Message friends
WhatsApp is mainly used for messaging friends and even creating conferences with more than two users. The app has plenty of emojis to choose from, to make the conversation more interesting. In addition, you can instantly snap pictures and send them to your friends or use TTS instead of the keypad.
Access your phone's gallery to send photos, videos, audio or even share your location. Calls can be placed from within the app, but they're not made via internet connection and charges from your carrier are applied. Still, you can use the app to send messages directly from your computer's browser by visiting the developer's website.
Customize the app to meet your needs
If you don't like the app's background, you can change it but you'll need to download a whole pack of WhatsApp wallpapers from Google Play. Fortunately, they're free of charge and come with many pictures to choose from.
WhatsApp isn't a free service, the first year of use is completely free of charge but for the second year users must pay 0.99$. There are some plans that you can choose from with discounts if you purchase access for a number of years. The app connects with Google Wallet to make it easier to make payments.
Add to watchlist:
Instant messengerChatPortable version:
Hits & Misses
hits
|
misses
|
Bottom Line
Design / UI8
The app's layout isn't spectacular, but it makes it easy to message friends and send files. There are options for changing the background, but the interface can be a tad confusing at times. |
Function8
It works just fine, messages load instantly and the app displays if send texts are seen by the receiver. Still, the app doesn't let users place calls via the internet. |
Security8
It needs many permissions from your phone and it's highly recommended that users adjust privacy settings to their profile before starting to use the app. |
Battery7
Power consumption is moderate, but you should still keep an eye on battery levels when using the app. |
Price9
The app itself is free only for the first year of use, afterwards users must pay 0.99$ or purchase a subscription for several years. |
Compatibility9
WhatsApp should work just fine on devices running Android version 2.1 or later, making it accessible to many users. |
A neat app for texting your friends.
Specifications
- price:
- 0.99
- current version:
- Varies with device
- reviewed version:
- 2.12.250
- developer:
- WhatsApp Inc.
- category:
- VOICE & MESSAGING
- os version req.:
- Android version 2.1 or later
- age rating:
- N/A
- in-app purchases:
- Yes. second year of use
- hits:
- 8091