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Take Your Text Message to the Next Level
These apps will get you started with texting, secure messaging, keeping up with your social network buddies, and dressing up your iMessage conversations with stickers.
Whether you want to send texts from a different number or another country, these apps will help you out. You can send text and MMS messages, or even make phone calls, using these free apps.
For people who want to keep up with friends in the U.S. and Canada through texting, calling, and video chatting
TextMe is a messaging platform that allows you to send and receive unlimited texts, voice messages, or pictures. It works with any mobile number in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, along with more than 40 other countries. It's built for texting, but it also allows you to call any number in the U.S. or Canada for free. You can video chat with other TextMe users, getting your own nickname and a U.S. texting number.
Why we love it
This is a great app for your kids to have if they go overseas, since they can call you back home in the States for free. It also works great as a video chat app, and of course the texting is spot on.
For people who want to text, send pictures, or chat with people in the U.S. or Canada
TextPlus was the original text messaging third-party app, offering free texting, picture messaging, and a free U.S. phone number for nearly a decade. It offers messaging to any U.S. or Canadian number, including text, pictures, or group chat. It works over Wi-Fi, so you don't need a cellular connection. You can even call for free to anyone who has the textPlus app.
Why we love it
If you've got an iPad, iPod touch, or other device that you don't want to link to your cellular device, textPlus allows you to turn that device into a phone for free. TextPlus is especially nice for having a way to make phone calls when cellular coverage is spotty, and it offers inexpensive international calling.
For people who want to keep in touch with friends and family all over the globe without breaking the bank
Textfree Ultra gives you your own U.S. phone number for use on all of your devices, and it offers plenty of features. You can send group messages, pictures, and text. Emoji support along with international calling and voicemail round out the feature set. It's free and unlimited, with real MMS picture messages, allowing you to send images to friends and family even if they don't have the Textfree Ultra app.
Why we love it
The best thing about Textfree Ultra is that it works well even when sending messages to folks who don't have the same app. Incoming calls are free, as are Textfree-to-Textfree voice conversations. You can earn outbound calling images easily, or buy them with in-app purchase.
Sometimes, you want to keep your text messages private. These apps offer end-to-end encryption along with other features to protect the security and privacy of your text message communications.
For people who want to keep their text messages private
With Signal Private Messenger, your texts are encrypted from end-to-end, ensuring your privacy. None of the communications are stored on Signal's servers, so the government can't spy on them by hacking into the app's data center. You use your own phone number and address book, and the app includes group chat and the ability to send any type of files you want.
Why we love it
I love the fact that Signal is open source, meaning I can verify its security by examining the code behind it. The encryption protocols are top-notch, and it includes both group chat and fast messaging. Best of all, it uses my existing phone number and address book.
For privacy-minded users who want to send secure text/instant messages
Telegram Messenger is fast, unlimited, secure, and powerful. It uses a distributed network of global data centers to speed your secure message along its way, and uses the strongest encryption allowed by law to keep things private. You can create group chats for up to 5,000 members and share videos and documents using the app. There are no limits or problems with synchronization, since Telegram automatically syncs with all of your devices. Start typing on your iPhone and finish on your iPad or MacBook. It even includes photo and video editing tools for your expressive needs.
Why we love it
I like the powerful features within Telegram Messenger, but I especially like the fact that it uses 2048-bit RSA encryption along with secure key exchanges. Group chats are fast and comprehensive, and it's great being able to share any type of file I need to and know it will be kept secure.
For folks who don't want their messages lingering around forever
Confide offers off-the-record and “self-destructing” communication with text messages instead of images (as with Snapchat). Once messages in the app are read, they disappear for good. What’s more, it effectively deters users from taking screenshots of messages by concealing words until they are swiped and making each word disappear after it’s passed over.
Why we love it
The best feature of Confide is the ability of the app to prevent screenshots from your device. Self-destructing messages are also nice, allowing you to be sure that secret message won't be around forever. Confide takes privacy to the next level, allowing you the ultimate in secure messaging.
You have tons of friends on your favorite social networking site and you want a simple way to chat with them. You can do that easily with these messaging apps that are sure to please.
For those who want a messaging app that offers group chats and multimedia sharing.
If you are ready to try a new messaging app, then WhatsApp Messenger is the one to check out. With Siri support, you can send a message or start a call quickly. Share your photos and videos, customize your wallpaper, and have fun with your messages with this popular communication tool.
Why we love it
WhatsApp Messenger is terrific alternative to your default message app. With a great array of features and options, make messaging fun.
For those who owe or need cash through Facebook friends.
We all have Facebook and we probably use Messenger. Now it's easier than ever to pay back your friends for that cup of coffee or the lunch they spotted you the other day. Just tap on the $ button and then punch in the amount. Messenger sends the money to the recipient as long as you have a debit card linked to your account, and it's super easy to add one if you haven't already. There's no more room for excuses — pay back your friends and get your money back too. This is all in addition to a fun messenging chat system that is used by millions of people around the world already.
Why we love it
We already use Messenger so having the option to pay back others or get money back without the need to install another apps is great.
For those who want a fun messaging and calling app.
With Viber, you can easily chat and call your family and friends up for free over Wi-Fi or cellular. Exchange private messages or set up group chats for sharing photos, videos, links, and stickers. No registration required: Just enter and validate your phone number and you're good to go.
Why we love it
Essentially, Viber functions quite similarly to other messaging apps. But it does have several distinctive features. These include Viber Out (which let you call non-Viber mobile and landline numbers for a free), Public Chats (which let you follow real-time conversations with brands and celebrities), and Viber Games (which let you play casual games featuring Viber characters).
With apps and iMessage games, your iPhone's built-in messenger becomes a lot more useful. Download these apps to bring in cool stickers, games, and more to the messaging experience.
For those who want one of the most deluxe gaming experiences on iOS, and like shooters.
Modern Combat 5 is a first-person shooter set in a modern-day environment where terrorists are trying to rule and governments are corrupt. Your task in the single player campaign is to figure out what's really happening. Meanwhile, the multiplayer mode pits you against the toughest soldiers gaming has to offer, with customizable specialists and amazing weapons.
Why we love it
This game has one of the finest multiplayer action available, and the single-player action is just as good. The graphics are amazing, and the sound effects will put you right in the game. You can make your character truly your own, both through choosing a class and customizing your soldier's skill set and weapons loadout.
For those who want an app to communicate instantly with parents and share classroom experiences.
Communicate with other teachers, parents, and students with ClassDojo. The app lets you share announcements, photos, and videos with parents. You can also send instant messages, encourage your students, and keep everyone in the loop with what happens in the classroom.
Why we love it
ClassDojo provides a safe way for teachers to stay in touch with parents and update them on classroom events and activities.
For those who enjoy shopping on their mobile device.
Zappos is a must-have for those who love to shop. With everything from a baby shop to sporting goods to clothing, shoes, and accessories, you are sure to find that perfect item. You can make purchases and manage your account, receive notifications, chat live with a representative, and share products within iMessage.
Why we love it
Zappos is the ultimate shopping app for your mobile device. There is something for everyone in the house and every taste as well. The app is easy, intuitive, and enjoyable to use.
