WhatsApp is undeniably the most popular messaging application on the globe. With a user base of about 2 billion, this app enjoys the top position in the communication landscape today.
The company regularly rolls out new features to keep users happy. However, after its acquisition by Facebook, privacy has emerged as one of the biggest issues for the app. Also, many users are not happy about being a part of the massive Facebook ecosystem.
Fortunately, there are tons of other messaging apps that boast powerful features comparable to that of WhatsApp. Let us look at some of the top WhatsApp alternatives you can give a try in 2022.
1. Telegram
The first on the list is the popular Telegram app that comes equipped with everything an instant messaging platform should offer, including support for text, pictures, videos, documents, and third-party tools. With Telegram, you can enjoy better security with its ‘Secret Chats’ where conversations are encrypted with a strong service.
Telegram offers some outstanding features like self-destructing messages, file sharing, and group chats up to 200,000 users. You can also sync your messages across devices.
2. Skype
The most widely used business chat platform, Skype makes an excellent WhatsApp alternative if you are fascinated about voice and video calls. This service offers exceptional quality when used to make overseas calls and also facilitates group video calls.
The updated design of the app lets you send messages, files, and images to your contacts quickly. It can be used on both desktop and smartphone for a seamless communication experience.
3. WeChat
The popular messaging app from China, WeChat has recently achieved success in the industry as a multipurpose platform that facilitates everything from messaging and file sharing to video conferencing and gaming.
Just like WhatsApp, you can use your phone number to register on the app and connect your Facebook or Email to find other people.
4. Wire
Another WhatsApp alternative known for its privacy, Wire is an encrypted messaging app with an impressive array of features. It lets you send text, voice, and video messages and supports file sharing, GIFs, and other stuff you may find with WhatsApp. However, this messenger syncs conversations across devices and also allows operating multiple accounts.
5. SnapChat
Though more of a social media app, SnapChat is a great alternative for WhatsApp for some really amazing features it offers. You can use the platform to send messages that self-destruct after a specified time period. It boasts powerful messaging features like voice calls, group chats, GIFs, and more.
A solid reason to use SnapChat is the fact that it is the most innovative of all the chat services. This platform generally introduces the latest features that other apps copy. So, if you want to be the first to access cool features, SnapChat is worth giving a try.
6. Signal
An ideal pick for those who are more concerned about privacy and security, Signal is a free messaging app that supports text messages as well as voice, group, and video calling. It lets you set a timer for automatic message destruction. You can even use a browser plugin to send messages from the desktop.
Signal comes packed with several security features and provides WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption without Facebook’s involvement. The company combines solid security with a user-friendly interface to give a simple yet powerful WhatsApp alternative for Android and iOS devices.
7. Threema
If you are looking for a WhatsApp alternative out of privacy concerns with your current app, Threema is worth trying out. It is a messaging app built focusing on privacy and security. All your data including messages, status updates, and media are encrypted using a strong protocol. It has a transparent privacy policy which should give you peace of mind while using it for communication.
The app lets you send text, video, image, and voice messages and allows creating group chats. Though Threema lacks some WhatsApp features like voice and video calling, its powerful security features are certainly impressive.
8. Viber
Viber is a reputed VoIP and messaging app that matches WhatsApp perfectly in terms of features. It offers end-to-end encryption for messages, media, and calls. It also provides multi-device support and encrypts messages across devices. Just like WhatsApp, it lets you enjoy voice and video calling but goes a step further with the Viber Out feature that allows making international calls to non-Viber users.
Some of the most outstanding features of Viber include file sharing, sticker store, public accounts, last seen, Google Drive backup, and more. A unique feature of the app is the ability to play games inside the application. Overall, Viber is quite similar to WhatsApp and makes an excellent alternative to it with some additional perks.
9. iMessage
The simplest WhatsApp alternative for iPhone users, iMessage allows sending messages to any phone number, whether or not they are iMessage users. The most impressive thing about this app is Apple’s security and privacy record. All your messages sent through this app always stay safe. iMessage comes fully featured with support for group calls, images, and GIFs.
Voice and video calls are not available with this app as you can do that with the FaceTime app that comes installed on Apple devices. Overall, iMessage is a great WhatsApp substitute for iPhone users.
10. Kik
This is a perfect messaging app for those who want to communicate without using their phone number. Kik is a service that requires only an email ID to enjoy all the messaging features as available on WhatsApp including stickers, emojis, video and photo sharing, and group chats.
A distinct feature of Kik is the support for bots that you don’t see in WhatsApp. With bots, you can stay updated on the latest news, fashion trends and even play games and quizzes.
11. Line
Another amazing WhatsApp alternative worth trying is LINE, a popular cross-platform messaging app that comes packed with a variety of appealing features. Just like WhatsApp, it allows sending messages and supports voice and video calls. It also adds a few unique features like the ability to make international phone calls, a Keep feature to store your favorites, a sticker store, and more.
LINE comes with a Timeline where you can view photo and status updates from your contacts. Some other features include filter messages, passcode lock, payments, and themes. While you may not find the simplicity of WhatsApp, it is a great choice for those who are in search of a feature-rich and powerful application.
12. Google Messages
Google’s version of iMessage, Messages makes an excellent substitute for WhatsApp as it is designed to replace your existing messaging app on Android. Google Messages is often available on modern smartphones out of the box. It integrates into all the Google services on the device to enhance convenience.
You can send all your text, files, and pictures as you would do with WhatsApp but it does not offer a voice and video calling facility. However, these features are handled by Google Duo which can be installed for free.
Final Thoughts
These are some of the best WhatsApp alternatives you can use for instant messaging. Whatever is your reason to stop using the popular messaging app, these substitutes should provide you with all the features and functionality along with some additional ones for secure and convenient communication with your contacts.
