Here are 8 alternatives to WhatsApp messenger

Mumbai: Available on all mobile platforms, WhatsApp Messenger is one of the most popular online messaging service available right now. However, the popularity of the messenger can also work against it sometimes. Presently, there is barely anyone using a smartphone who does not use the WhatsApp messenger app. And to escape from the huge WhatsApp crowd, opting for other similar messaging apps is one option available. Therefore, we bring you a list of online messaging apps that work as good alternatives to WhatsApp:  

Hike

No Talktime balance and want to message someone very urgently? Now messaging is possible with 0 balance also. Hike will help you send messages for free, provided you have your internet pack on your smartphone. Even if your recipient has a basic phone, he/she can receive your message via Hike very conveniently.

Viber

Viber also uses mobile contact numbers to identify that a verified user. This app can be called as a close competitor of  Whatsapp. After downloading it from Google Play, the user receives a message which contains an access code. Viber will then access the smartphone's address book to see if any of your contacts are connected to Viber. WhatsApp, Viber also allows Internet calls.

ChatON

ChatON is a messaging app created by Samsung but it doesn’t allow you to make calls to your ChatON contacts. A user can choose to sign in with their Samsung account or skip the process and just enter their name. After the phone number is verified, the app checks all onboard contacts to see if any of them are on ChatON.

LINE

LINE registers a user's phone number into its database, allowing them to reply to messages by installing a PC or Mac OS program, provided a user registers their number with an email account. Besides text messaging, the messenger also allows free calls to other LINE contacts.

WeChat

WeChat is said to be one of the well-known messaging apps in China. You just need to register your phone number and an SMS will help you get the verification code. You can also connect your Facebook and email account to help your contacts find you easily. WeChat also helps user share pictures, current location and voice chat.

Kik Messenger

Looking for a new and engaging way to interact with your audience? Have amazing content or a cool experience you'd love to get discovered? Kik offers brands and content providers unique ways to talk with their fans, and find new followers!

Kik also has open-sourced tools and libraries to help developers create great web experiences that can be discovered and instantly shared on the Kik Messenger.

GroupMe

This messenger is like a private chat room for your small group. A user can have as many groups, and it's always free. What’s different about the messaging app is that a user does not necessarily need to have the app to use GroupMe. One can add anyone from their phone book and they will immediately be able to chat with the group directly over SMS.

Kakao Messenger

KakaoTalk is an easy, no-cost, multifaceted messaging app. A user can send messages, photos, videos, voice notes and their location for free. The messenger makes chatting extra fun with an array of emoticons and sticker collections.