Instant messaging applications: top 15 best in 2023

Type instant messaging application open source, Signal is not as popular as the previous ones, but turns out to be effective in terms of features. The first advantage to put to his credit is that for forums, users have the possibility of adding an unlimited number of members. The operating principle is similar to that of WhatsApp, your phone number serves as a identifier to communicate with your contacts.

Two instant messaging applications to know

Among other things, you can mention Facebook Messenger or Skype, two messaging services that are linked to an email address and therefore allow you to chat from a computer or a smartphone without having a phone number.

Instant messaging is now an integral part of our daily life. It allows us to communicate with our friends and family in real time, regardless of where we are. There are several instant messaging applications on the market, but two of them have stood out: Whatsapp and Telegram.

Facebook property, WhatsApp is one of the most popular instant messaging applications in the world. It has more than 2 billion active users, making it the most used messaging in the world. WhatsApp is available on iOS and Android platforms and is also accessible via the web.

WhatsApp offers end -to -end encryption, which means that only the sender and the recipient can read the messages. It also allows users to make voice and video calls and share multimedia documents and files. The application has a simple user interface and is easy to use, which makes an excellent choice for people of all ages.

Telegram is another popular instant messaging application known for its safety and confidentiality functions. Telegram has more than 500 million active users and is available on iOS and Android platforms.

Telegram also offers end -to -end encryption and messages can be configured to self -destruct after a specific period. It also allows users to make voice and video calls and share multimedia documents and files. Telegram has a unique function called “secret cat”, which is a encrypted cat to which one can only access on the device which initiated the cat.

What is the best instant messaging application ?

The best instant messaging application ultimately depends user preferences. WhatsApp and Telegram both offer excellent features, but Telegram is known for its improved security and confidentiality functions. WhatsApp, on the other hand, has a wider user base and is an excellent choice for those who wish to communicate with their friends and family worldwide.

How to hide someone’s SMS ?

It is not always possible to hide a person’s SMS without using a third -party application. However, WhatsApp and Telegram both offer a function to hide cats on the main list. To hide a discussion in WhatsApp, slide to the left on the discussion you want to hide and press “Archive”. On Telegram, press the discussion you want to hide at length and select “Hide”.

In conclusion, WhatsApp and Telegram are excellent instant messaging applications that offer unique features. WhatsApp is the most used messaging in the world and has a simple user interface, while Telegram is known for its security and confidentiality functions. To hide a discussion, the two applications offer a function to archive or hide the discussions on the main list.

Therefore, what are the surest messaging ?

I’m sorry, but the title of the article “Two instant messaging applications to know” does not provide any information on the safest messaging. The article can deal with two instant messaging applications that deserve to be known, but that does not necessarily mean that these are the safest applications. To find out more about the safest messaging, you may have to look for another article or another resource.

What is the application that replaces WhatsApp ?

I’m sorry, but the article mentioned does not provide any information on an application that replaces WhatsApp. It only mentions two instant messaging applications that users should know, but none of them is mentioned as a replacement WhatsApp.

How to communicate discreetly ?

One of the ways to discreetly communicate is to use instant messaging applications offering end -to -end encryption, such as Signal and Telegram. These applications guarantee that only the sender and the recipient can see the messages and that they cannot be intercepted or read by third parties. In addition, these two applications allow users to configure self -destructive messages that disappear after a while, adding an additional layer of confidentiality and safety to communication.

Instant messaging applications: top 15 best in 2023

There are a multitude of instant messaging applications. Although WhatsApp is the most popular, there are still other alternatives. Here are the 15 best free message sending apps !

March 22, 2022 13 minutes of reading

More and more people opt for instant messaging applications to replace the SMS. This is justified by the fact that they are more practical, rapid, less expensive and multifunctional allowing to communicate all over the world. Before choosing software to speak with someone, make sure your loved ones use it and take into account the security factor. It is recommended to opt for an application guaranteeing end -to -end that promotes compliance with user data. This system guaranteed that users will be the only ones to be able to decipher and read the messages exchanged between them.

There is a Kyrielle of instant messaging applications which here is the top 15 selected according to your needs and your use.

Whatsapp: the most used messaging

If WhatsApp figure at the top of the list of Instant messaging applications, It is because it is the most popular of all. The software has exceeded the two billion mark ofusers And he owes his notoriety to his ease of use. Indeed, WhatsApp just needs phone numbers of your loved ones and therefore, you will not have to add contacts manually.

Thanks to Instant messaging application to the green logo, You can send messages writings, vocals, stickers and also share files. So it’s an application to call for free on the internet. To this must be added standard features such as video calls and group discussions that can accommodate up to 256 contacts. In terms of security, Whatsapp uses the end -to -end encryption, which guarantees compliance with your private life.

Considered one of the Best instant messaging applications, Messenger is software that has been developed in parallel with the social network Facebook. It also offers multiple features, including Voice and videos calls, sharing photos and discussions for two or in groups. The particularity of Messenger lies in the fact that the directory of contacts is assimilated to your friends on Facebook.

In addition, unlike theapplication Previous, if you are added to a forum, you can access the messages sent before your integration. However, know that the signal protocol which guarantees the encrypted messaging is only effective if you activate it upstream in the settings.

Telegram: a complete application

Telegram is a Instant messaging application who has nothing to envy to the previous ones, because it is also complete in terms of features. It is a compatible software on several operating systems of which Mac OS, Windows, Android, iOS, Linux and which allows to have encrypted discussions of end to end. He has several millions of users active that can create high -capacity forums of members, up to 10,000 people.

With Telegram, you can activate the secret cat option so that some messages are self -destruct at a given hour on your devices. However, the functionality of Video calls is not yet available on the Instant messaging software, which is a small downside.

Skype: for professional exchanges

Skype is no longer to present, because it is software that guarantees good quality communication features. Indeed, it is a Instant messaging application developed by Microsoft which turns out to be free, practical and also available in French. It should be noted that with Skype, you can stay in touch with your loved ones by video, audio, messages via discussion one to one. This software facilitates the interaction between two people in a forum in which members have the possibility of sending documents with ease. For users who are looking for a professional functionality, know that Skype authorizes a visio that can support 50 contacts per session.

Google Hangouts is an instant messaging service offered by Google in order to allow its users to communicate with those around them. They have the possibility of launching Free vocal calls and videos, send and receive photos individually or in a group. One of the main advantages of Google Hangouts is that it advocates professional use by allowing you to share files thanks to Google Drive. If it is appreciated by users, it is because it allows you to keep the history of conversations online to be synchronized on other devices.

Imessage (Apple): for quick discussions on iPhone

Users of a brand smartphone Apple have undoubtedly already experienced Imessage, an application that promotes rapid discussions. With this software, the messages are quantified from start to finish and are not accessible to third party without an access code. In addition, you can configure the display time of a discussion as well as the number of times the recipient can consult it. In terms of security, Imessage fulfills the additional criteria, as the user’s iCloud backup option is guaranteed.

However, this can represent a drawback, because if it should be remembered, the keys to this system are controlled by Apple. However, the telephony giant leaves you freedom by allowing you to deactivate discussions so that they do not appear in the cloud.

Signal: not popular in France, but effective

Type instant messaging application open source, Signal is not as popular as the previous ones, but turns out to be effective in terms of features. The first advantage to put to his credit is that for forums, users have the possibility of adding an unlimited number of members. The operating principle is similar to that of WhatsApp, your phone number serves as a identifier to communicate with your contacts.

Note that Signal guarantees the same features as its competitors, but also offers a more reinforced security aspect at the cutting edge of technology. However, if you opt for this Android application, You will not be able to make audio group or video calls.

Viber: a more fun application

It must be emphasized that Viber is a very friendly usually used to match people living in other countries. Note that she has a clear interface and offers the functionality of self -destructible messages that you can configure in the Conversations Secret tab. This is an application that allows us to initiate surveys and integrate an active community through the creation of public forums welcoming unlimited participants.

End -to -end encryption is valid for written, vocal messages, for Video calls, file sharing and animated stickers. You will need a number to register and be contacted by your contacts, but the numbers of community members are hidden.

Discord: a powerful exchange platform

If you are looking for a Powerful discussion application To make vocal and videos calls, then opt for discord. Software has become a reference in this area by offering a Panel of features that make him an effective tool. In addition to the classics, Discord is integrated with a spelling corrector, a Markdown support, an option to pinch messages as well as Customizable emoticons. It should be emphasized that the list is not exhaustive and the features are expanded as you update.

The only downside that must be deplored is theabsence of end -to -end encryption system, which does not guarantee the security of your discussions. This is the reason why it is recommended to use a VPN Before using it to preserve your anonymity.

Snapchat: an innovative cat concept

Snapchat is one of these popular messaging applications which offer an innovative concept in order to stand out from the competition. Playful and pleasant to use, it provides users, inventive tools including sending ephemeral messages. Classified among social networks With a strong juvenile dominance, Snapchat offers a complete exchange module allowing to dialogue by sharing videos and photos.

The major asset of this application is that only friends whose request you have accepted can contact you. Nevertheless, know that Snapchat does not guarantee total confidentiality of privacy, because the Company retains user data.

WeChat: more than a simple messaging application

Well beyond an instant messaging application, WeChat offer a Functionalities Kyrielle as interesting as each other. Developped by Tence, The software is particularly a hit on the Asian continent and allows users to start video and vocal discussions. In addition, with WeChat, you can exchange photo content and Share streaming flows With geolocation option. You should know that theinterface is translated into several languages And the tabs are arranged to facilitate the use of the software. However, if you plan to install this application, know that certain keywords are prohibited and content can be deleted arbitrarily.

Line: essential software on the market

Line Come to enrich this top instant messaging applications by bringing a very special touch that has attracted its users. Ideal for exchanging to or from Asia, the software offers features that facilitate their daily life:

• video chat,
• Large pack of stickers,
• Recording vocal messages,
• timeline,
• file sharing.

In addition, you can discuss via private messages or in groups with forums that can accommodate at least 200 members. Regarding the aspect of security, end -to -end encryption is available even if this option does not cover community discussions.

Wickr Me: an ultra secure application

Accessible on all platforms, Wickr serves me as an ultra secure instant messaging application and above all without advertising. Functional since 2012, the software has been designed by fervent defenders of freedom of expression and respect for privacy. This is why the application is one of the first on the market to adopt end -to -end encryption and therefore your messages are automatically encrypted.

It should be emphasized that there are two versions of the software, including one paid and the other free, even if they combine similar features. Among these, you will find the shredding of content, the self-destruction of messages, unable to make screenshots of exchanges (unless you use an Android).

Wire: software intended for everyone

Wire is open source type software that uses integrated E2EE and guarantees a high level of encryption for messages or calls. Very strongly advised by Edward Snowden, It allows you to send documents securely from any device you are connected to. In addition, the application offers a session verification option so you can make sure you talk to the right person.

It also has the password locking functionality and you can add up to 100 contacts in audio discussions. Finally, know that the inscription on Wire is entirely anonymous, because you can use a temporary email.

OIVID: Practical and stable

If users appreciate this application, it is because it is practical, stable and offers advantageous features, whatever your profile. In terms of secure communication, Olvid offers double authentication, end -to -end encryption and an anonymity registration procedure. To register, you will only have to enter last and first name which will give you the right to an identifier, to share with the people you want.

You are therefore not likely to be dealing with a stranger, because only the contacts you add are authorized to chat with you. However, this application does not make it possible to make video or vocal calls, because it is purely textual software.

Bonus video: the 10 best encrypted messaging applications

FAQ: Questions often asked about instant messaging

What is an instant messaging application ?

An instant messaging application allows you to exchange messages simply from a smartphone or other device connected to the Internet. The advantage compared to SMS is that the shipment is free and does not require telephone drill. In addition, the exchanges are instantaneous which promotes live discussions which does not allow the sending of email which is longer.

What is the best instant messaging application ?

The most used in the world and in France is WhatsApp. Beyond the features and simplicity of this messaging application, the advantage is therefore that many of your contacts also use it which makes it all the more useful.

What app instead of WhatsApp ?

Other applications such as Messenger, Telegram or Skype are also very practical to communicate. You choose !

What is the most secure messaging app ?

Less well known, Wickr Me or Olvid allow more secure discussions with messages encryption and commitment to confidentiality.

Who created Instant Consumer Public messaging ?

The first instant messaging software was called ICQ and was created in 1996 by Mirabilis, an Israeli company.

What was the leader of messaging and French -speaking chat in the 90s ?

In the 90s, MSN Messenger messaging met with great success. At that time, smartphones did not exist yet so it was necessary to connect from a mac or windows computer to communicate.

How to download and install your favorite messaging app ?

All applications listed above are available for free on Google Play Android and the Apple App for iPhone. You can download them and install them on your smartphone. Downloading messaging apps is free and you just have to create an account to start using them. Web versions also allow you to connect from an internet browser. Some also offer a software version to install on a Windows or Apple computer. Downloads are therefore simply accessible from the device you use to communicate.

Note that the aforementioned applications are not the only ones that allow an instant discussion, because there is also:

• Steam,
• Instagram,
• Slack,
• Zoom,
• Tango,
• Kakao Talk,
• Chaat (instant cat without registration)
• etc

They can use alternatives to you, but don’t forget to base your choice on the level of safety and check if your loved ones use them.

Cite 2 instant messaging applications

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We have gathered for you the best instant messaging applications on Android, with a list of their features for each and some screenshots to help you select the one you need. Here are the best instant messaging applications for Android.

Shortcut

Whatsapp: because everyone has it

WhatsApp may not be the best instant messaging application but it is undoubtedly the most popular. Even if it does not have as much features as some other applications on this list, WhatsApp is unbeatable in terms of simplicity, reliability and popularity. It is very likely that your contacts also use it.

WhatsApp uses the phone numbers of your contacts, so you don’t have to add contacts manually. You can send written messages, voice messages, stickers, emojis and files. WhatsApp also allows you to write to several contacts at the same time (groups), as well as call your contacts for free (sound and/or video).

• App version: 2.29.150
• App size: 24.4 MB
• App compatibility: Android 4.0.3 or more
• Economy model: free

Messenger: because everyone is on Facebook

Even if it has many detractors, the Facebook instant messaging application, Messenger, is fast and clear. Messenger’s strength lies in its directory of contacts: the list is made up of all your Facebook friends. This is rather practical, it must be admitted.

Messenger also allows you to communicate with your friends who are not on Facebook, you just have to use their phone numbers. You will find on the application all of your Facebook messaging without having to go through the application or the website. Among the many possible features, we find emojis, groups, voice recordings, geolocation data, free calls, photo sharing etc.

• App version: 216.0.0.20.114
• App size: 43.0 Mo
• App compatibility: Android 5.0 or more
• Economy model: free

Skype: for video calls

Skype has always been considered a benchmark for video calls, but it is not based on the laurels of its seniority. In addition to audio and video communication, Skype also offers a more classic written communication system. It has proven itself since many companies use it as a means of communication.

Unlike other applications, Skype requires an identifier, you will have to know the ID of your correspondents to be able to add them to your list (you can also search according to other criteria, such as the name). Skype also offers you the possibility of adding credit to call abroad on fixed and mobile lines.

The chat part offers you the basic features: cat groups, emojis, sharing photos, files etc. In addition, you will have only one account on several devices (which WhatsApp does not do).

• App version: 8.45.0.43
• App size: 32.8 MB
• App compatibility: Android 6.0 or more
• Economy model: free

• The best alternatives to WhatsApp on Android

Signal: for safety

Signal offers the same services globally as its competitors: instant messaging, file sharing, stickers, cat group ,, but it offers much more developed security. All messages (received and sent) are encrypted, whether in transit or end -to -end.

The operating system is similar to WhatsApp: your phone number must be checked and will then allow you to communicate with your contacts.

• App version: 4.40.4
• App size: 38.5 MB
• App compatibility: Android 4.4 or more
• Economy model: completely free

Viber: for sticker fans

Viber’s specialty is stickers (like line): free or paid packs, its market is huge. But let’s not forget that it is above all an instant messaging application: you can save voice messages like on WhatsApp and you can call any phone number with Viber Out – a bit like Skype credit that allows you to join people who do not use Viber.

The interface is very clear and Viber offers original features such as polls. The application is free and its popularity gives it a place of choice in this selection.

• App version: 10.7.1.1
• App size: 35.8 MB
• App compatibility: Android 4.1 or more
• Economy model: free with purchases in the application

Line: for a younger, cooler skype

Line is more and more popular and for a good reason. With her video chat functionality, she is now just as equipped as Skype but she is more modern, sexier than the good old Skype. It has a large number of stickers and other smoking things, and its success has no limit in Asia.

Among its features we also find the group grouped, multi -platform (works on smartphone, tablet, PC), timeline, recording of voice messages, file sharing and much more -to note the presence of accounts of Celebrity messaging you love. Line is a kind of Twitter, Facebook, and Skype gathered in a single application. Like Viber too, a PC client is available.

• App version: 9.8.0
• App size: 111 MB
• App compatibility: Android 4.4 or more
• Economy model: free with purchases in the application

Telegram – Secure and complete

Like signal, Telegram is a solution that will appeal to those who want to keep their private messages. Conversations are encrypted and you can even use a destruction option after reading the message. The interface is also simple and the features are similar to WhatsApp. There are many options and you can even choose the color of the notification LED for Telegram messages.

• “Whatsapp will never be secure” according to the creator of Telegram

• App version: 5.6.2
• App size: 17.5 MB
• App compatibility: Android 6 or more
• Economy model: completely free

What is your favorite messaging application on Android ?