What is messenger, how does it work. Which messenger to choose? What is a messenger? The most popular messengers for communication

Messengers have been a boom in recent years. They appear in app stores in batches - one is cooler than the other, and everyone chooses the one they like best. We have already discussed this several times on the podcast, much more often in the editorial office. Our team was divided into telegrammers and Viberists, and the cedar editorial chat was formed spontaneously in two places at once: the general team chat in Bitrix24, and the cedar editorial team is on Skype.

We have selected the six most popular instant messengers. Some of them, if not all, are definitely on your smartphone: Viber, Whatsapp, Telegram, Skype, Hangouts, Facebook Messenger. Last week the voting for them ended, and Viber won, as expected. Still, most people use this purple tube, and today we will find out why.

For those who are too lazy to read the text, we recorded a video. It brings up the main points of comparison: installation, voice calls, group chats, file transfers, decorations, and encryption. Everything you need to know about each of the six messengers.

Locations

This is the very first and almost the most important point. Why the main one? Yes, because users need their messenger on all devices. If not everyone has Pushbullet (although hello, iOS users, and a holiday has come to your street), then I would like the messenger to be able to be installed on a smart or tablet, on a computer or laptop, or open it on any device in the browser in case of urgent need . That is, we need mobile, desktop and web versions. Therefore, let's go point by point.

Viber exists for all platforms. You can even install it on your first Nokia phone. Everything and everywhere. Both on the computer and on the phone. Only there is no web version. All interfaces are Russified. The applications are as simple and understandable as possible, while they have the same functionality on both mobile and desktop, right down to making calls. Contacts are automatically pulled up, and friends who are already using Viber receive a message that you have installed the application. Messages are not stored on servers.

Whatsapp until recently was considered exclusively a mobile messenger. And only on January 20 its web version appeared. The application is synchronized by reading a QR code. You can't access the web without a mobile app. Contacts are synced automatically. In the application you can write messages and join chats (this feature is not yet available in the web version). Calls are not available. Differs in laconic appearance and ease of use. Message history is not updated. The first year of using the messenger is free, after that it is paid. But if you are stingy, then you can change the upgrade and yay! For reference, WhatsApp has its own SIM card - WhatSim. For 10 euros in 150 countries around the world you can exchange messages if you have Internet access, without spending money on roaming. Options such as sending photos or voice messages are paid additionally.

Telegram is the youngest messenger among those presented and is quickly gaining popularity. You can install it almost everywhere except BlackBerry, but thanks to its popularity, the service is acquiring dozens of unofficial applications. So if you don't like the official client on WindowsPhone, there are a couple more of them. Everywhere it has a similar interface, very similar to WhatsApp, only on WP it is made to match the OS. It pulls contacts from the phone book and sends a message to users about “a new addition to the family.” All messages are displayed on absolutely all devices, because they are stored on servers.

Skype can be installed, it seems, even on a teapot. But I’m exaggerating the fact that it can even be installed on a console. That is why it is so popular. Nothing is needed for synchronization. The history of previous messages is not updated on the new device, but is synchronized after connecting to the Internet and is stored for no longer than six months. The mobile application on iOS drains the battery, on Android it is not cake at all, does not show notifications, drains the battery and is too slow. Down to the basics - I can’t delete messages from the Android version of Skype. The main disadvantage of Skype is its mobile application. Everything else in nm is almost perfect. Contacts can be found by number and synchronized with Facebook.

Almost everyone who uses Google services has Hangouts. You can install Android and iOS, you can communicate directly on the site, there is a good extension for Google Chrome, a la the desktop version. The latter has a cool display on top of all windows, convenient miniature circles that are cool to collect into one tower and move around the screen, because it has animation in the style of a capitoshka. Messages are synchronized and stored in the history of all devices. Convenient and nice messenger.

Facebook Messenger was invented back in 2011, but people switched to it en masse in 2014, kicking them out of the messaging menu. Pulls up contacts from social networks and phone books. Can be installed on three mobile axes and install an extension for Google Chrome. Stores message history on all devices.

Group chats

All messengers are supported. The only difference is the size of the audience. The record holder is Skype - up to 300 people, followed by Facebook Messenger - 250 users, Telegram up to 200, followed by Hangouts and 150 people, then WhatsApp and a maximum of 100 users. Viber was in the rear - up to 40 people. A kind of chat for the class. In short, large chats are needed for those messengers that are often used for work. The easiest way is to start a chat on Skype, because everyone has one. By this logic, we started an editorial chat and are sitting there. Five people. By the way, Viber also has open groups where fans of a person or resource or lovers of satin stitch embroidery communicate.

Voice calls

This is not the main feature of messengers, it would seem, but a message can be conveyed not only by text, but also by voice. Therefore it is important. Voice calls are supported by Viber, Hangouts, Skype, Facebook Messenger. WhatsApp supports voice messaging feature. This feature appeared in the FM application quite recently, but you can call anyone who has the application installed. That is, calls within the application. There is nothing supernatural about them and few people use them. Because you can only call your friends from FB.

It is possible to make calls within the application. These can be just voice calls, or there can be video calls, up to a maximum of 10 people. For the most obvious example, it is in hangouts that we conduct video broadcasts when we comment on the presentation of Apple or Google I/O. You can call everyone you once sent a letter to or with whom you are in Google+ circles, even if you do not have a subscriber number. Comfortable!

Viber supports calls both within the application and to telephone numbers. Even abroad. It's called ViberOut. You can look at the tariffs inside the application for each country, but I heard from regular users that this is much more profitable than calling while roaming using operators. Convenient and cool, it can fully replace not only the message menu, but also the dialer. This is a clear advantage of the messenger.

By the way, WhatsApp does not have its own calls, but from their application you can call the other person’s number using the power of a dialer or using Viber. And not to be left out - Telegram has a set of voice messages... It works like a video on Instagram - press and speak.

But still no one outdoes Skype, because in this messenger you can make voice calls and video calls, voice and video conferences, and even call abroad! Up to 10 people will take part in a video call for free, and up to 25 in a voice conference. Calls abroad and more users within the chat are paid services; see the tariffs on the website according to the conditions of your country. Even if it costs a lot, Skype does not have popular or equally widespread alternatives in this regard. This is very cool.

Transferring files

Content can be transmitted in absolutely all services. Another thing is how it is displayed. In this regard, my absolute favorite is Hangouts - it pulls up videos from YouTube in mobile and desktop versions. In second place is Telegram and its desktop version for Windows. Videos from YouTube and Vimeo open right in the dialog window; you can watch them right here or open a link on the website. Pictures are uploaded to Viber, WhatsApp, Telegram, Hangouts and Facebook Messenger. That is, if you send a picture, it is displayed in the dialogue, keep this in mind if the messenger is opened to full screen and your friends are jokers. As for Skype, images must be downloaded to be displayed; they are not displayed in the dialogue. Linked images are not displayed. If you link to an image, the image itself is not pulled up and is displayed as a link. Before sending, photos can be edited in Facebook messenger, signed in Viber, WhatsApp and hangouts. Audio is exactly the same. Soundcloud doesn't even show up.

Decorations: stickers, emoticons, Easter eggs

This is not the most important point, but always extremely pleasant. All services have primitive emoticons. And if you want more, then we will go in order. Viber— for me this is the most childish messenger. In purple color, with the ability to put your own background on each dialogue, with a million strange stickers, animations and the ability to write postcards that change the sound of your voice. In short, it seems that it was created for schoolchildren. And they won. After all, who, besides schoolchildren, students and startuppers with a lot of free time, will be in charge of choosing an emoticon drawing suitable for a dialogue or a separate picture for a dialogue with a friend and a separate one for a dialogue with an investor? But it is there, it can be used to diversify communication. Sometimes, when I have insomnia, I dictate strange video messages and send them to my friends so they can giggle in the morning. And if you don’t need all this, don’t use it. This cuteness, in principle, does not bother your eyes, does not distract, only notifications about new stickers are sometimes stressful. By the way, one of two messengers that can send stickers even from the desktop version.

whatsapp simpler. Its background can be changed, but it will be displayed on all dialogs, there are no stickers, only emoticons. In general - communication without unnecessary jokes. Only words, only hardcore, no additional “virtual facial expressions”.

Telegram They also decided to get confused, but relatively recently, so for now it looks strange. So, you can replace the dialogue background, but like in WhatsApp, and not like in Viber - one for everyone. You seem to have stickers, but they lie very awkwardly - tied to emoticons. That is, in order to send someone a sticker with Bob Marley's face, you need to find a suitable emoticon. And to find out what is in the diet, click on all the emoticons. And not in a row. Only the first emoji in a row will display the sticker. Well, it's sooooo difficult. We hope the creators fix this.

Has at its disposal all the variety of decorations. Here you will find emoticons and thematic collections of stickers. They are very cute, the ones in the tabs a little further are so funny. And the eyes don’t trick you, you can use them, or you may never know about their existence, because they are attached to the menu where the photo is sent and the location is shown. But what’s nice is the Easter eggs. There are few of them, but there are ponies! Look what happens if you write “ahahaha”, “hurray”. As it turned out in practice, a message with the promise of “abracadabra” and “Wingardium Leviosa” does not evoke Harry Potter. It's frustrating. But if you want to change the background, you won’t be able to simply do it. It is necessary to execute the last command, with arrows and letters. And you will have a lush garden. Enjoy using it!

Skype- a place where emoticons and Easter eggs meet. And the coolest thing is that there are a lot of them, they change periodically, something is removed, for example, sexy legs or the Black Widow is no longer there. Sometimes even censorship attacks emoticons, for example, the bare-butted man is no longer so much a bare-butted man, now he is covered by a black rectangle. And yet these joys of communication are there, in the mobile application they are just pictures, on the desktop version they are animations. Find the current list online.

Facebook Messenger almost like Viber, only the backing cannot be changed. These emoticons are a dime a dozen here; my younger relatives are bombarded with all sorts of pictures and stickers. They are not particularly annoying, they are well hidden and do not flash in the eyes. The stickers themselves are coolly drawn.

Confidentiality and security

A very controversial point when choosing a messenger. On the one hand, most users think that this point is not so important, because “I don’t do anything like that and don’t discuss anything like that.” On the other hand, how do you feel about the fact that some leftist dude will sit and read your correspondence with your mother or beloved girlfriend over morning tea? This is why security is important when choosing a messenger for a permanent basis. I found this infographic from the LIGA website and cut it up a little. Hangouts is not the only one on this list, but the essence is clear.

I want to briefly talk about all the messengers. Julian Assange also said about Skype that they work closely with intelligence agencies. In light of the latest events and innovations of this year, I would not trust either Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp, which was recently purchased by Zuckerberg, with valuable information. Although, in fairness, I note that it is not so easy to log into WhatsApp. If all messengers can be connected via login (Skype) or phone number even on a device where there is no SIM card (in one hand there is a tablet without a SIM card, in the other there is a phone with a valid number. You put the messenger on the tablet, you indicate the number, you receive a code on your phone, you put it on the tablet, that’s it), then with WhatsApp this number won't work. When the application failed to automatically retrieve the code from SMS, the service tried to call me, but it was the wrong device, so they banned me for an hour and asked me to solve technical problems. Here's how. Hangouts from Google, and the company of goodness, as you know, is always watching over you. With Viber, compared to others, everything is not so bad, but information about the vulnerability of the system periodically appears. And only about Telegram it is said in plain text - we are for the safety of your data, we won’t let anyone read it and we won’t do it ourselves. How it all works in reality is unknown, but you can read more about its safety.

Conclusion

I deliberately omitted the “Audience” item, because you can see for yourself from the contact book who uses what. If you follow the descending order, then Viber -> WhatsApp -> Skype -> Hangouts -> Telegram -> Facebook Messenger, which was generally invented for communication on Facebook. And the choice of a service for communication begins with the traditional survey of friends “what do you use?” and based on these statistics we get the average and set it. Or if you are completely principled, then you put what you like best, and do not respond to messages even on VKontakte, sending “invitations” every day to your wonderful messenger.

We distributed the places like this:

1. Viber - because chats + calls anywhere + can be installed on all devices + suitable for any audience + very simple and clear interface, which you gradually get deeper into + convenient notifications for a quick response. No complaints. Well, maybe it’s too purple.
2. WhatsApp - crushed by audience and authority + fast and popular + as simple as possible and nothing distracts from communication in it + is developing, the web version was shown. Complaints: no desktop version, no calls, no entertainment, why did you sell out to Zuckerberg?
3. Telegram is young and ambitious + can be installed anywhere + supports very large group chats + ease of use + displays content in dialogues + connection and data transfer speed + encryption. Complaints: stickers are displayed haphazardly, there is no official support for the Russian language, there is not enough audience. The last point shifted Telegram from second place to third. My main messenger, and Shamanov actually said that I was wrong, and telegram is better than all the messengers combined.
4. Skype is the oldest + convenient and simple + everyone uses it + video calling. Complaints: a very bad mobile application that does not display notifications, drains the battery, takes too long to launch and open dialogs, content needs to be downloaded, almost anyone can read your correspondence. But if you fix the problems with the application and security, then the majority of people will return to Skype and forget about other services.
5. Hangouts - everyone who uses Google mail + very simple + video conferencing + nice Easter eggs for which you don’t have to do anything + connection speed. Claims: everyone has them, but not many people use them.
6. Facebook Messenger - a lot of stickers + convenient display on top of all windows. Claims: almost no one uses it, except all FB users. But who uses FB?

What messenger do you use and why? (Yes, this is a slightly more detailed version of the poll)

If you find an error, please highlight a piece of text and click Ctrl+Enter.

They are the main means of communication among users of mobile devices and computers. SMS, MMS and even e-mail become outdated and less convenient than instant messaging applications, which often use your phone number as a login. This way, all your contacts automatically appear in instant messengers, which is very convenient.

In this article, we decided to collect the TOP 5 of the best and most popular messengers today in Russia, Ukraine and around the world.

#1

WhatsApp is the most popular instant messenger in the world, almost everyone who has a smartphone will definitely install it. This application is popular mainly because of its simplicity. All your contacts will be automatically added to WhatsApp.

Messages, group chats, sharing media content, stickers, emoticons, etc. - all this, of course, is there. Users can also make free calls to other users who have installed Whatsapp.

Most popular in countries such as Russia, China, Germany, Italy, Latin American countries.

Advantages:

• Free application;
• Works on all popular OS: mobile iOS (iPhone), Android, Windows Phone; Windows computers,MAC;
• Free audio and video calls to any country in the world (no additional fees), messages and group chats (up to 256 people);
• Uses any type of Internet connection (Wi-Fi, 4G, 3G, 2G or EDGE);
• Multimedia content (photos, videos, documents and voice messages);
• There is no need to remember logins and PIN codes for authorization; the application only uses your phone number and contact address book.

Flaws:

• Sending files with a maximum size of 100 MB;
• They note the energy consumption of the iPhone;
• Not the best encryption system;
• Requires iOS 8.0 or Android 4.0.3 or later.

#2

Viber is ideal for those who like to use as many stickers as possible. Although the instant messaging service is the main thing in this application, but it has established itself well in the sticker market. Viber has a beautiful, simple and user-friendly purple interface, voice messages, group chats and video calls also work great on Viber.

Most popular in countries such as: Ukraine, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Advantages:

• Free application;
• The application is available for iOS 9 and above, Android 4.0 and above, Windows Phone, as well as on Windows, Mac OS and Linux;
• Free calls, messages and videos with other system users.
• Stickers, GIFs, animations, etc.

Flaws:

• Sometimes there is poor connection during audio or video calls (but this happens everywhere);
• The maximum length of a voice message is 30 seconds;
• Spam and advertisements;
• Weak data encryption;
• There is no option to export data.

#3

Telegram is quite new on the messenger market, but has already won the hearts of many users. It is considered one of the most secure and encrypted messengers. It is possible to create your own groups, store a complete correspondence history and communicate in group chats.

The leading place among messengers is in the following countries: Iran, Uzbekistan and Ethiopia.

Advantages:

• Free application;
• Telegram is available for mobile iOS, Android, Windows Phone and computers running Windows, Mac OS and Linux;
• Open source code that allows each person to make their own edits to their application: make stickers or something cooler;
• Convenient group chat and text editor: special bots will help;
• Smart bots. They will help you format your text for Instagram and other applications, randomly determine the winner, etc.
• Unlimited voice messages;
• The application stores a complete history of all your correspondence (unless you want to delete it manually);
• Possibility of simultaneous work on several devices.

Flaws:

• Lack of voice and video calls;
• Secret chats are only available for phones.

#4

One of the most popular instant messaging applications, but gradually losing its popularity. Video calling is the main feature of this app, but there is also a chat feature that allows you to communicate with other Skype users. It has group chat, emoticons, stickers, media sharing, etc.

But in order to add friends on Skype, you need to know their Skype ID. Plus, you can make cheap international calls by adding Skype credit.

Advantages:

Flaws:

• Messages that have already been sent cannot be edited;
• Weak confidentiality;
• No voice calls.

Statistics of installations and active users (for 28 days)

Russia (Android - Google Play)

The best instant messengers in Russia (Android)

Russia (iPhone - AppStore)

The best instant messengers in Russia (iOS)

Ukraine (Android - Google Play)

The best messengers in Ukraine (Android)

Ukraine (iPhone - AppStore)

The best instant messengers in Ukraine (iOS)

Infographics

The most popular free instant messengers in the world

The best instant messengers in the world 2019 (AppStore)

The world is becoming more and more communicative and we can no longer imagine our lives without these invisible helpers in our everyday communication - messengers.

7th place - Snapchat

It is used by about 100 million users. You can use it to send photos, videos, and drawings to your contact list. But you cannot communicate simply with text, only “paired” with a visual image. Users set a time limit during which recipients can view their messages. The files are then "evaporated" from the sender's and recipient's devices, but are not deleted from Snapchat's servers.

Benefits of Snapchat

Fast work;

Front camera support.

Disadvantages of Snapchat

The color scheme and interface design are far from the concept of “adequacy”;

Incomplete Russian interface

6th place - Line

This much-loved chat room in Japan is used by 211 million people. Initially it was intended for mobile phones with Android and iOS OS, then a version for BlackBerry, Nokia Asha and Windows Phone appeared. There is a version of Line for computers running Windows and Mac OS. The highlight of the application is the built-in social network, where you can blog and post comments.

AdvantagesLine

The application performs data transfer functions and can also be used as an interesting social network;

The program works on almost all mobile platforms;

Login account carried out using a QR code;

User-friendly interface.

FlawsLine

English menu

5th place - Viber

Photo from pcpress.rs

This creation of Israeli developers is used by 249 million users. The PC application synchronizes the contact list, messages and call log with the “owner’s” mobile device and allows you to make free calls to any devices of other Viber users, regardless of their country of location.

AdvantagesViber

Incredibly good connection quality (this is why Skype fades into the background);

Ability to work in the background without draining the battery;

Integration with the phone book, thanks to which you can see who else is using this service;

Receive call notifications even if the application is not running;
sending images, SMS, location information, as well as making free calls between users of this service;

Calls to mobile and landline phones are provided;

FlawsViber

Not found

4th place - WeChat

Chinese mobile encrypted instant messaging service used by 600 million users. Between April and July 2015, the number of WeChat users grew by 37%, according to data from the program's developer, telecommunications company Tencent. The system supports voice and text messages, makes it possible to share photo and video files and exchange contacts via Bluetooth.

AdvantagesWeChat

Availability of a modern Russified interface in the program;

Provides unique opportunities for meeting people and exchanging likes;

Allows you to make audio and video calls;

Suitable for any mobile operating systems.

FlawsWeChat

Inability to set a ringtone for messages;

You cannot specify the status.

3rd place - Facebook Messenger

Photo from techspective.net

This application, based on the open MQTT protocol, is used by 700 million users. By comparison, Skype, the Internet telephony service run by Microsoft Corp., boasts only 300 million users. In 2011, a mobile version was released for the BlackBerry, iOS and Android platforms, and in 2012 a version of the messenger for PC appeared. In 2015, users of the service are no longer required to register with Facebook. In order to enter the application, you need to provide a phone number.

Benefits of Facebook Messenger

Synced well with Facebook: When you receive a message, you'll be taken to Messenger, but can also be taken back to your Facebook feed. But if all this were combined in one application, it would be much more convenient;

The stickers here are extremely varied. Actually, just exchanging these funny emojis can be done endlessly;

Minimalist functionality: it’s just a messenger, nothing extra.

Disadvantages of Facebook Messenger

Not found.

2nd place - WhatsApp

Photo from medium.com/@journey

Facebook Inc. paid $18 billion for the cross-platform WhatsApp application, which currently has an audience of more than 800 million people. It has standard messaging functionality, as well as the ability to create groups and share video, photo and audio files. It is possible to quickly transmit audio messages. The program is tied to a phone number, not the user's ID or nickname, and generates a list of contacts by scanning the owner's phone book for numbers registered in the system.

Benefits of WhatsApp

Cross-platform and easy to configure;

Integration with the address book contact list;

Possibility of organizing group chats and adding media files.

Disadvantages of WhatsApp

Lack of support for other existing platforms, such as Samsung Bada.

1st place - QQ Messenger

Photo from imqq.com

The most popular instant messenger in the world, developed by the Chinese Tencent. Every month, 843 million people exchange secure messages using it.

Benefits of QQ Messenger

Built-in software store;

Translation in real time;

Capture a small part of the chat screen or record small video clips and share them with the other person.

Disadvantages of QQ Messenger

If you have no friends in the Middle Kingdom, then you will have no one to communicate with.

Kazakhstanis have never even heard of some messengers on this list. The first place is occupied by Chinese, which is popular in few places except China. But it should be noted that WhatsApp and Viber are as popular in Kazakhstan as throughout the world. Let's add here Skype, which has lost popularity in the world, and Facebook messenger.

Private opinions

Alexey Bendz, director of corporate communications at Beeline Kazakhstan, believes that WhatsApp is the most popular in Kazakhstan, followed by Skype, Viber, M-Agent and Facebook Messenger.

“The most popular are instant messengers that support calls and video chats, in which you can create communities and groups. I, like most Kazakhstanis, chose WhatsApp. of this service Messaging has three advantages: first, the ability to create groups; second - call support and third - web version. For example, I can start communicating on a PC and continue the conversation on a smartphone,” says Alexey.

Olzhas Bibanov, head of public relations at Tele2 Kazakhstan, is confident that the reason for the popularity of WhatsApp lies on the surface. In his opinion, initially this messenger was positioned as a messaging application and gave O greater functionality than sms, mms and traditional email. Naturally, such online opportunities were not charged in any way and did not cost anything in comparison with roaming from mobile operators.

“Viber positioned itself as an application for calls, and the Facebook messenger was born much later than WhatsApp - this explains why they are not as popular as WhatsApp, which together is much more functional than both applications,” Mr. Bibanov is sure.

Messenger is a program that allows users to communicate with each other using messages.

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What are instant messengers and how to use them? Let’s look at an example.

Alina is a university student. Active and almost constant communication with friends and classmates is very important for her. To do this, she uses three applications that are installed on her smartphone. Here you can send a message to a group of people at once, and, if necessary, send files and photos. It’s convenient to use even in public transport, it’s free – you just need Internet access. WhatsApp, Viber and Facebook messenger have almost completely replaced the previously familiar calls and SMS.

Messenger: what is it

If I had to explain to my grandmother what a messenger is in simple words, I would say that it is a program for connecting users with each other. Messages are sent almost instantly. Applications are developed by different companies and installed on a computer or smartphone. Depending on the functionality of each program, you can simply exchange text messages (like SMS), add pictures - stickers to the correspondence, send files of different formats, communicate in groups, or even make video calls with one or more people.

There are two mandatory conditions for work:

By the way, in some countries there is a ban on instant messengers. The reasons are different. Somewhere Telegram is banned because its correspondence is closed from government security services, and illegal actions can be carried out through it, including organizing mass unrest. In others, there are certain requirements for the technical aspects of the work. Blocking is a consequence of policies and restrictions on freedom of speech. These and other reasons can cause a particular application to stop working temporarily or permanently.

Let's look at the main popular instant messengers - what opportunities they provide.

Viber

This messenger shares first place in terms of usage with WhatsApp. It has been working since the end of 2010, installed on 90% of smartphones. The number of its clients has almost reached a billion people. With its help, you can write text messages, organize communication between groups of participants, make calls, and make video calls to subscribers around the world. Sending files, photos, interactive pictures, stickers, geolocation are the functions present in the application. One of the latest innovations is the ability to create a message in which the message cannot be forwarded to others. And after some time, it will remove itself.

In the chat you can rate comments, select an administrator, and configure different graphical interfaces. The program can work from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Installation and use of the program is free. Contacts for communication from the phone book will be pulled up automatically.

Users consider the main disadvantage of Viber large number advertising. It comes in the form of messages from all kinds of taxi services, shops, restaurants and other companies. In this service, in order to send something, you do not need to ask for the recipient’s consent.

whatsapp

The most popular and one of the world's first instant messengers - it is used by more than a billion people. Recent years popularity is falling due to the emergence of new programs with expanded functionality. For its use there was a fee of $1 per year, but since 2017 it has become free. Developed in 2010 in the USA. The application is installed on popular operating systems and can be used as an online service.

Key features available on WhatsApp:

• communication via messages or calls (via the application);
• group chats;
• determining and displaying the subscriber's location;
• integration of contacts from the phone book;
  forwarding contact information to other users;
• personalization of interface design;
• custom notifications;
• forwarding correspondence history by email;
• sending and receiving photos.

The security of communications via WhatsApp is protected using an end-to-end encryption protocol, which is sufficient for ordinary subscribers.
Among the disadvantages, it can be noted that one account is installed on only one mobile device (in addition, a desktop application), since it is associated with a phone number. According to user reviews, synchronization between the two versions does not always work correctly.

Facebook messenger

The application is developed and linked to the popular social network – Facebook. The user account is linked to the profile in it. One of the advantages of this messenger is multi-accounting - the ability to create several accounts in one application. Moreover, even when working in one profile, you receive notifications about messages in others. Switching between profiles takes seconds.

In terms of popularity, Facebook messenger is one of the world leaders - over a billion people communicate on it. This is due to integration with Facebook. To enter the program you need a login and password from your social network account. The list of contacts consists of phone book data and Facebook friends. New ones can be added through a convenient search option.

Key features of Facebook messenger:

• correspondence with messages that include links, photos, videos and other information;
• file sharing;
• search for other users and groups;
• location information;
• calls;
• notification of new messages and the ability to disable this for the desired time (at night, during business hours).

The main disadvantage is that the service takes a lot RAM and actively reduces the smartphone's battery energy.

Telegram

Developed by Pavel Durov, a Russian businessman and programmer. Leads in the number of clients in the Middle East, South America, and some European countries. To register, you will need a mobile phone number.
In terms of functionality, it differs from other instant messengers (such as WhatsApp and Viber).

Key features of Telegram:

• Communicate via text messages and voice calls.
• Exchange files of different formats with other users.
• Participate in group chats - up to 200 participants and supergroups - up to 10 thousand participants.
• Secret chats - information is deleted after a while and is not saved anywhere.
• Forward dictated voice messages.
• Create and view channels - recorded or online content on various topics - politics, finance, fashion, education and others.
• Built-in media player.
• Store files (unlimited volume and quantity) on a cloud server.
• Use bots - special programs, which can perform a variety of actions - converting files from one format to another, searching for information, weather forecasting and other functions. You can either use existing ones or create your own.

A minimalistic and clear interface of the program, high speed, completely free provision of all functions, synchronization and work on two devices - all this is far from full list benefits of Telegram. This explains its growing popularity around the world. The program works on mobile and desktop devices with operating systems iOS, Android, Windows Phone, Mac OS, Windows and Linux. Moreover, in terms of system resource requirements, the application is very unpretentious.

Telegram is also known as a secure messenger - user correspondence is closed even from government services. Information is not provided upon request, and it cannot be seized by force - the servers are located in different parts of the world and simultaneous access to them is impossible. Without this message it is impossible to completely restore. This was the reason for the ban on the messenger in some countries.
The disadvantages of Telegram include the lack of video calls, communication with technical support service on English, availability of user information – mobile number.

Skype

Operating since 2003.

Key features of Skype:

The application is free and works on both mobile and desktop devices. Moreover, the interface and functionality are almost the same.

The program is completely free.

Signal

The most hack-proof messenger. It was the result of the merger in 2015 of two programs for messages and calls: RedPhone and TextSecure. Uses the security protocol of the same name, Signal Protocol. Data protection is maximum here - you cannot take a screenshot of correspondence.
You can find friends to communicate with and send them invitations using SMS, social networks and email newsletters. The program interface is very clear and minimalistic.

Key features of Signal:

• text messaging;
• secret chats – information is deleted according to a set timer;
• calls.

Signal messenger does not offer users much entertainment, stickers or varied designs. The main thing is communication and security.

Messengers for business

Communication programs are not only for personal purposes. Every year they are increasingly being used to solve business problems. And this is quite understandable. On average, Russians spend 1.5-2 hours daily on social networks and communicating in instant messengers. Messages received via them on a smartphone, according to statistics, are opened within three minutes, while email letters wait three or more hours to be read. Communication programs are installed on smartphones, and their owners are the most solvent and advanced audience. These are the kind of clients businesses need. And communication through the programs people use is one of the most effective ways reach the consumer.

It is beneficial for business to use the services of this communication channel for a number of reasons. Among the main advantages:

• Reduced service costs - one chat operator can communicate with 5 clients in the time that he would spend on one telephone conversation.
• Visibility - information that reaches the client through instant messengers is much more understandable than in SMS or simply in conversation. There may be a photo, a collage, a link to the site.
• Little competition - such methods of working with clients are still relatively new and are not used by many. Information will not be lost among dozens of others.
• Convenience for the client - you can review the proposal and the company’s response at any convenient time or return to it later. While a phone call may be inappropriate, and an advertisement from a social network or a letter in the mail that arrived a couple of days ago can be difficult to find.

When to use

In what cases will using popular applications produce results? How exactly to use them and for what? Let's take a closer look.

• Sales - selection, payment and exchange of goods can be organized through this communication channel. Moreover, many functions can be automated using bots. The Chinese messenger WeChat already allows you to make payments for purchases, AliExpress searches for the necessary products using the @alisearchbot robot + product name. Making an appointment with a doctor, booking a hotel, calling a taxi, ordering food at home - these and other options are already working.
• Consultations and customer support - answers to the most common, non-urgent and standard questions (addresses and opening hours of stores, selection of services).
• Hotline, reviews – collection of reviews and feedback about the work of a store, cafe, gas station and any other company.
• Communication within the company - communication between employees, video conferences, meetings, joint resolution of common issues.

How to organize

There are a number of steps that are necessary to implement the idea:

1. It is worth considering how applicable instant messengers are to the industry in which the company operates. The more a business has an online presence, the better it will work. The result will be worse with the target audience of older people, who are unlikely to appreciate and use the new product.
2. You need to choose a suitable program. Whether you prefer WhatsApp, Viber or others depends on the country. These programs are the leaders in popularity, although Telegram, Skype, and Facebook Messenger are also popular among clients. The option of an initial launch on several services is worth considering in order to collect statistics and select the most popular ones.
3. It is necessary to prepare a scenario and work procedure, taking into account service standards, time for communication, and templates for common questions that do not require an individual answer.
4. Collect a budget. We will have to buy technical equipment and organize salaries for employees.
5. Implement, train, learn to use new tools.

Communication via instant messengers should not become spam. You should not use them only to send advertisements that can be blocked. It is better to organize a full-fledged communication channel with them for consultation and assistance to consumers. Ideally, there is initiative on their part. To do this, you can indicate on the website or advertising brochures in which application the client can find the company. Contacts can also be sent via SMS or email, if such communication channels have been used previously.

Mobile messengers as a means of communication are a good and promising way to improve customer service. Which increases brand loyalty and sales.

Tests were carried out according to 68 criteria. Each of them received its own “weight” in the total score, which made it possible to form the most objective assessment. The results of the study will help the consumer get a complete picture of the quality of applications and will facilitate the process of choosing the right program.

FUNCTIONALITY

One of the most important consumer characteristics of any mobile application is functionality. In the case of instant messengers, there is a small segment of users who choose applications specifically for reasons of security, but there are significantly fewer of them compared to ordinary users who are primarily focused on the functionality of the programs. In this study, as in previous ones, the corresponding group of test parameters (29 criteria) received highest value– 32% of the final grade.

The main task that the messenger is designed to solve is the user’s exchange of messages with other participants in the conversation.

Correspondence

Roskachestvo assessed the possibilities of correspondence according to the following criteria:

• The ability to respond to a specific message within one chat. Available in 73% of tested applications.
• Forwarding messages(according to this criterion, the application must forward the message to another user with information about the author and the date the original was sent). The stated requirements were fully implemented in only 20% of the applications studied. This feature was completely absent from the Kik, Wickr Me, Instagram, Snapchat and Discord applications.
• File transfer. The maximum score was given if the application allows you to transfer documents (and adding is done from the application itself, and not through file storage), audio and video files, as well as images. At the same time, it was checked that it was possible to send more than 10 graphic files at a time (in one message) and to edit the graphic files before sending. 49% of the studied applications fully complied with the stated requirements. Only the Instagram application received the lowest score (1 point), the rest had scores above 3 points.
• Delivery status information. The essence of the criterion is to display the “Delivered” and “Read” statuses with a time indication for messages sent by the author. In 43% of the evaluated applications, this function is fully implemented, in the WeChat and Snapchat applications it is completely absent.
• Audio messages. The only apps that do not allow them to be exchanged are Hangouts, Kik and Discord. The rest support this function, but do not allow either converting received audio messages into text (implemented in Mail.ru Agent and ICQ for Android), or speeding up playback (implemented in WhatsApp, Signal, Threema, Wire, BiP, VKontakte, " Odnoklassniki" and Instagram).
• Sending geolocation. Implemented in 67% of messengers.
• Stickers and animation. They are fully present in 55% of the applications studied; they are absent in Threema and Wickr Me.
• Editing messages after sending. The function is available in 45% of messengers, but only 20% received the maximum score. It was set if editing messages was possible only within 48 hours after they were sent to the interlocutor, with an indication in the chat that the message had been changed. A similar assessment was made for the criterion “Deleting messages” (for all participants). This function is best implemented in WhatsApp - the time for deleting is limited (you cannot delete a message after many days), there is a deletion mark, the message can be deleted for all chat users. You can't delete any messages in Google's Hangouts app.
• Group chats. According to this criterion, the application must have the ability to create and join chats with 3 or more participants, the ability to pin messages and manage the community. In addition, when launched, the chat should open in the place of unread messages, and not the most recently received ones. In fact, complete functionality is implemented only in Mail.ru products - ICQ, TamTam and Agent. Not a single verified application received zero points.
• Favorite or pin a chat to the top of the list, or add messages to favorites Available only on WhatsApp, WeChat and Snapchat. 21 out of 49 applications received zero points.
• Search by correspondence history implemented in 80% of messengers, absent in Hangouts, Kik, imo, Instagram and Snapchat.

Audio and video calls

Since users are increasingly using Internet telephony instead of traditional calls, the Center for Digital Expertise of Roskachestvo has also assessed the possibilities of making audio and video calls.

Other criteria

In addition to the criteria listed above, experts also assessed the applications according to the following indicators:

The most functional applications (for Android and iOS): TamTam (4.51), ICQ (4.38) and Mail.ru Agent (4.38).

EASY TO USE

In addition to the functionality of the application, ease of use is also important. This group of criteria was assessed by experts according to seven parameters, the most important of which were “Ease and quality of navigation”, “Help in the application” and “Adaptation for people with disabilities”.

Based on the results of the test, the applications Viber, Messenger (Facebook), WeChat, Threema, Skype, iMessage and Instagram for iOS received the maximum score. Android applications did not reach the maximum score. WhatsApp and Wickr Me for iOS and WhatsApp, Hangouts, Threema and Skype for Android also have high scores (4.5 out of 5). ICQ, Agent Mail.ru, SOMA and VIPole applications for iOS are not suitable for use by people with disabilities. On average, messengers for Android are better adapted than for iOS: the average score for Android is 3.2, for iOS - 2.9.

The most convenient applications for iOS are Messenger (Facebook) (4.85), Threema (4.85) and Skype (4.7). For Android – Threema (4.79), VKontakte (4.68) and Skype (4.64).

SAFETY

A very important group of criteria, especially when it comes to personal correspondence, is “Security”. The key criterion here was the use of end-to-end encryption by messengers. End-to-end encryption ensures that only the sender and recipient have access to the original text of the message, while it is not accessible even to the servers transmitting the data. Encryption and decryption occur on users' end devices. This significantly increases the confidentiality of correspondence.

Daniil Chernov

Head of Solar appScreener at Rostelecom-Solar

– Encryption is the most reliable way to protect the confidentiality of correspondence. The question, as always, is how well it is implemented. First, the encryption algorithms used must be strong. Secondly, you need to be confident in the “honesty” of the encryption implementation, and this is a matter of trust in the messenger vendor. Are there really no loopholes in the application that allow you to access the contents of the correspondence?

Viber, WhatsApp, Signal, Threema, Wire, Zangi, SOMA, Wickr Me and VIPole use end-to-end encryption by default (for all chats). Some messengers have this option, but it is not used by default - for example, Messenger (Facebook) and Skype (you need to create secret chats). In the ICQ and Mail.ru Agent messengers, end-to-end encryption is not applied to text chats, but is used for audio and video calls. As for iMessage (the Message application preinstalled on all iPhones), only messages in blue “bubbles” are end-to-end encrypted - they are the ones that belong to the iMessage messenger. Messages in green bubbles are regular SMS messages that are sent without any encryption.

The rest of the tested applications do not provide end-to-end encryption, which makes correspondence significantly more vulnerable compared to the above-mentioned applications. In particular, the services themselves have encryption keys and hypothetically have access to correspondence data.

However, end-to-end encryption does not guarantee complete confidentiality and security, but only reduces risks. For example, the victim's device may have Trojan horses or third-party applications installed that request excessive access and permissions. Push notifications with a fragment of correspondence shown are also vulnerable. In order for them to work, iMessage, for example, sends encryption keys to the server, which are necessary to decrypt messages. In addition, most instant messengers allow you to create backup copies of conversations that are stored in cloud storage or locally on the device, which also creates additional sources data leaks. Attackers can also gain access to correspondence by reissuing a SIM card using a fictitious power of attorney. In this case, confirmation codes will be sent to the new SIM card, which will allow you to easily log into your account and even download your correspondence history (backup copy).

Therefore, it is extremely important to use two-factor authentication - in the case of instant messengers, log in using a code from SMS and a password (code word). This will make it much more difficult for attackers. This feature is implemented in the WhatsApp, Signal, Odnoklassniki, Instagram, Snapchat, Discord and VIPole applications. The Messenger (Facebook), Hangouts, Skype, VKontakte and iMessage applications do not have the ability to enable/disable two-factor authentication, but this can be done in the web version or in a separate form (as is the case with iMessage). Other services do not have two-factor authentication.

Experts also checked the ability to set a password to enter an application or a specific chat, as well as support for access using biometric data (Touch ID/Face ID, etc.). The WhatsApp (iOS only) and Signal applications received the maximum score for the “Authentication” criterion.

In addition to determining whether end-to-end encryption was used for messages and calls, applications were tested to ensure that all data transmitted was encrypted at the transport level. Using specialized software (Wireshark), experts captured all traffic sent by the application under test and then analyzed it for the presence of unencrypted data. In instant messenger applications, all data is transmitted via encrypted channels.

Another important criterion is privacy settings. The top scores for this were WhatsApp, iMessage (iOS 12) and Threema, which allow you to control the visibility of your phone number and profile photo (or not display them at all) for other users. The remaining applications (except for ICQ, Zangi, Signal, BiP and Mail.ru Agent) allow you to do only one of the above. To ensure a greater degree of confidentiality, Roskachestvo recommends using these functionalities, as well as disabling the display of online/offline statuses and automatic uploading of received photos to a public phone album.

Self-deleting text messages are implemented in Viber, Signal, Wire, BiP, Wickr Me, Snapchat and VIPole.

Viber, Wickr Me, Snapchat, Signal (Android only), Threema (Android only), and VIPole (Android only) offer screenshot protection or notifications.

Applications were also checked for the absence malware(all received 5 points), the redundancy of the requested permissions was assessed (no redundant permissions were identified), the possibility of deleting an account (implemented in 49% of applications) and the informativeness of the legal documentation (the purposes for collecting personal data, their list, deadlines, etc. - indicated for all except BiP; SOMA has no privacy policy).

Consent to the processing of personal data is requested in all applications except Zangi, while in 53% of instant messengers it is active (requires additional actions from the user, for example, checking a box).

When conducting testing, Roskachestvo did not take into account the attitude of development companies to requests from authorities or law enforcement agencies to disclose user information, as well as the anonymity of messengers.

The most secure applications: for iOS – Wickr Me (4.73), Viber (4.57), WhatsApp (4.40) and Wire (4.31); for Android - Wickr Me (4.73), Viber (4.57), Threema (4.57) and Signal (4.35). It is worth noting that instant messengers that position themselves as private and with an emphasis on security have performed really well from this point of view: the Signal, Threema, Wire, Wickr Me and VIPole applications have scores above 4 on this criterion.

What is the safest way to use instant messengers? Recommendations are given by Roskachestvo experts.

Vladimir Zykov

Director of the Association of Professional Users of Social Networks and Messengers

Many began to transfer all communications and agreements to instant messengers, which is extremely unsafe to do. Most instant messengers allow you to edit and delete messages, which deprives you of evidence if you decide to remind your interlocutor about your agreements. It is better to give preference to those instant messengers that allow you to hide your phone number in the privacy settings. In this case, if someone reposts your messages, others will not see your number. Please be aware of these risks and set your privacy settings accordingly. Remember that anonymity in instant messengers is a myth. There are no absolutely safe messengers. Most of them have access to the camera, microphone, photos and contacts on the device, which in itself is insecure.

Ilya Loevsky

Deputy Head of Roskachestvo

Any methods of exchanging information on the Internet cannot be called secure or completely confidential; this must be taken into account. Both IT corporations and law enforcement agencies can access correspondence and metadata. If you want absolute privacy, communicate in person, but even here IT giants can eavesdrop on you in order to offer you targeted advertising.

PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY

In addition to functionality, ease of use and safety, Roskachestvo experts assessed performance and reliability mobile applications.

Resistance to external interruptions was determined (for example, you are typing a message and at that moment an incoming call arrives - part of the typed message should not disappear anywhere), stability of the application, correct operation of the application and display of interface elements, size of the application.

The largest amount of memory occupied by an application is WeChat for Android (more than 300 MB). Threema, imo and VIPole for iOS and Threema and “TamTam” for Android weigh less than the others (score – 5 out of 5, weight – less than 50 MB).

All applications showed correct and stable operation. However, when choosing the Chinese WeChat messenger, you should take into account the difficulties with registering in the service: it is necessary to verify the account with the participation of a user who already has WeChat installed, and it must satisfy a number of conditions.

The highest performance scores were received by applications for iOS Threema, imo, iMessage and VIPole (5 points), for Android - Threema and TamTam.

PORTABILITY

The possibility of transferring chats to another device, the availability of a desktop/web version, a version for smart watches and another mobile operating system (iOS/Android) were also assessed. All the applications studied allow you to transfer correspondence to other devices; all instant messengers have a desktop/web version except Kik, Zangi, SOMA and Instagram. The latter has a web version, but it does not allow messaging. The smartwatch version is only available for Viber, Messenger (Facebook), WeChat for both platforms, iMessage for iOS and Threema for Android.

APP INFORMATION

Experts also paid attention to the information characteristics of the applications, such as the informativeness of the description, the absence of reviews in the description, screenshots and videos, compliance with the declared functionality, as well as other criteria. A potential user should be able to familiarize themselves with the functionality provided and see what the application looks like in screenshots and videos, without having to install it. Also, the description should contain information only about the implemented functionality, contain a link to the privacy policy, and the application itself should be updated regularly. The TamTam messenger has the highest score in the “Application information” group of criteria (4.97 for iOS and 4.96 for Android).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the totality of all criteria, the following were recognized as the best:

1. WhatsApp (4.50)
2. Viber (4.42)
3. Skype (4.18)

1. WhatsApp (4.41)
2. Viber (4.36)
3. Threema (4.28)

The study was conducted in accordance with the testing methodology based on the preliminary national standard for comparative testing of mobile applications PNST 277-2018.

Thanks to Roskachestvo's research, if it is necessary to choose an application that supports a certain functionality, the consumer has the opportunity to filter software products by its availability and make a choice taking into account the rating compiled by experts from the Roskachestvo Center for Digital Expertise.