Instant Messaging Apps for Android: Chat, Calls and Voice

What instant messaging apps actually do

An instant messenger is more than a text box. Most of the apps in this selection bundle text chat, voice and video calls, file sharing and group rooms, and they differ mostly in how they identify you and where your contacts come from. WhatsApp Messenger and Viber tie your account to a phone number, Telegram adds usernames and large channels, and Google Voice gives you a separate number rather than a classic chat network. If you also want a broader view of communication tools, the messenger and chat tags cover neighbouring ground, and video calling collects apps built around calls.

Apps in this tag

• Telegram APK: a cloud based messenger known for large group chats, channels and easy file sharing across devices
• WhatsApp Messenger APK: the phone number based chat and calling app that many people already use with their contacts
• WhatsApp Business APK: a variant aimed at small companies that need a business profile and quick replies
• Messenger APK: the standalone chat app for people who keep conversations tied to a social account
• Viber APK: a messenger focused on chats and calls, popular for calling over mobile data or Wi-Fi
• Google Voice APK for Android: gives you a calling and texting number that sits on top of your regular SIM

How to choose

Start with where your contacts already are. A messenger is only useful if the people you talk to have it, so a technically better app can lose to the one your family uses. Next, decide whether you need a second identity: WhatsApp Business and Google Voice are better for keeping work and personal numbers apart.

Before you install an APK

Messengers handle your contacts, photos and phone number, so be picky. Check the minimum Android version on the card, because chat apps are updated often and an old build may stop connecting. Expect to verify by SMS or a call, and keep your SIM available. Sideloaded builds do not auto update through the store, so plan to replace them yourself. Do not expect MOD tricks in this category: modified messengers can break encryption or get accounts restricted, so stick to the original builds listed here. For other everyday tools, browse all apps, the social tag, or our guides before you sideload anything.