WhatsApp is the world’s most popular messaging app, with over three billion active users. From its humble beginnings as a cross-platform messaging service, WhatsApp has grown to offer video calling, image and location sharing, and even acts as a host for Meta AI.
However, just because WhatsApp is the most popular messaging app doesn’t mean it’s everyone’s cup of tea: users might be put off by its archaic login process, lack of multi-account support, or even just its general vibe.
Fortunately, there are many alternatives. Below is a list of the best WhatsApp replacements for Android users, all free (although some have additional premium features for those willing to pay).
Google Messages
Google Messages has the advantage of coming pre-installed on almost every Android phone and uses the same Google Account system that Android relies on, meaning it may seem like the most natural choice for Android users.
Google has gradually increased the functionality of the Messages app over time, and it’s now one of the most feature-rich messaging services on the market.
Like WhatsApp, Google Messages relies on your phone number to send and receive text messages, but because your messages and contacts can be linked to your Google account, transferring between devices is much easier.
Although Google Messages is an Android exclusive, you can chat with users on other platforms without any problems thanks to RCS support.
Discord
Discord has long been the messaging and calling app of choice for gamers due to its integration with Steam, PlayStation, and other platforms, but it’s also a very powerful communications app that shines when it comes to group chats and communities.
While not as simple or intuitive as the other messaging apps on this list, Discord’s flagship feature is its server system, which allows the creation of topical channels within a larger group.
This makes it a great choice for planning big trips, creative projects, or building communities around your favorite TV shows, music, or games.
Discord is also a solid choice for simple one-on-one calls and messages, and uses a friends list system similar to traditional social media rather than phone numbers. Discord Nitro subscription service adds HD video streaming, larger file downloads, and a plethora of cosmetic upgrades.
Signal
The open source messaging app Signal focuses entirely on privacy. Like WhatsApp, all conversations on Signal are end-to-end encrypted, meaning no one other than you and the recipient can read them.
Messages can also be set to self-destruct and local backups are disabled by default, making it easier to manage your footprint for sensitive conversations.
Being open source means that anyone can see how the code that powers Signal works, which keeps things transparent and would, in theory, expose any backdoors if implemented.
Session
For an even more confidential messaging experience, Session has you covered. Session uses a decentralized blockchain network to transmit individual and group messages, all end-to-end encrypted. The app also offers encrypted calls through the same network.
Additionally, Session does not require a phone number or email address to use. The application assigns each user a unique code of 66 characters. That’s more anonymity than any other app on this list can claim to offer.
Session also has a no-logging policy, meaning it doesn’t track your IP address or other data. For users who place privacy at the heart of their digital experience, Session is a lesser-known but powerful option.
Session Pro is currently in beta and allows for higher character limits and larger group chats, among other features.
Beep
Unlike the other apps on this list, Beeper isn’t really its own messaging service. Instead, the app functions as an aggregator for other messaging apps, including social media services like Instagram.
This is ideal for people who want to stay in touch with friends and respond to messages without risking getting stuck in doom scrolling afterwards. It uses a clean, minimal user interface and lets you respond through your regular social accounts.
Beeper claims that it uses zero-access encryption before your chats are backed up on its servers, meaning only you can see your chat histories. However, as with any third-party client, be sure to review permissions and access settings to ensure you are happy with what Beeper can access.
The optional Beeper Plus subscription adds new features like chat reminders and scheduled sends, and allows you to manage up to 10 accounts.
Facebook Messenger
If you are looking for a Meta app for your messaging needs but you just don’t like WhatsApp, then Facebook Messenger is your best choice.
As its name suggests, Facebook Messenger is tightly integrated with Facebook, making it a compelling choice for fans of the platform as well as its associated Facebook Marketplace service.
Messenger is a lightweight, handy app that offers texting, calling, and file sharing – all the basic features you’d expect. Discussions can also be linked to specific Facebook groups and pages, which is ideal for creating and updating larger communities or developing group plans.
Another option from Meta here, and this one comes with a full social media network. For my money, Instagram’s Direct Messages section is one of the best and most feature-rich messengers on the market.
Indeed, Instagram has spent the last decade taking the best parts of every other messaging app for itself: you can share files and photos, personalize chat with themes, create group chats, pin messages, and connect to Spotify for easy song sharing.
Of course, Instagram DMs are best for people who already use the platform on a daily basis, as you can share posts, Reels, and Stories through the app’s messaging. This is the one I use most often.
Let us know your Android messaging app of choice in the comments below and be sure to check out our lists of the best Android phones if you’re considering getting a new Google-powered handset.
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