The market for iPhone apps has grown rapidly in recent years. Among the variety of apps, one in particular stands out because it replaces the old, classic SMS messaging familiar to every cell phone user. WhatsApp is a messaging program that allows users to communicate with each other for free. The principle is simple and similar to that of SMS. With the help of so-called push notifications, you can send messages to your friends, colleagues, and family without delay. Unlike regular SMS messages, there are no fees for messages; only a data plan with your mobile provider is required to fully use WhatsApp.
But the app doesn’t just offer the ability to send free messages to other users; you can also easily send pictures, notes, or videos with this small program. It doesn’t matter where you or the recipient are located. This means there are no more annoying international fees if one of the users isn’t in the country.
Connecting the World, One Ping at a Time
With the help of a status message, the user can also share their current location or current thoughts with all their contacts. With just one update, you can inform all your contacts that you will be difficult to reach during the day, for example. While the initial versions were only available with an iPhone, the application is now also available for BlackBerry, Nokia, and Android phones.
Your Pocket-Sized Messenger
WhatsApp is very fast and easy to use, that is why people like it more. You can send a message and it gets there right away, even if your signal isn’t that strong. It’s also helpful for group chats — whether it’s for your family, close friends, or people at work. You can even pick who sees your photo and status.
The ease of use, the free and permanent connection with all other users, and the constant availability make the original SMS obsolete, and with WhatsApp, a new generation of instant messaging begins.