What is Messenger and how to use it? Review of the best communication programs for iOS and Android. Messengers: what they are, what they are, and how to use them

The financial and economic news agency Bloomberg published the top 7, which included the most popular messengers. The ranking of the best is based on the size of the user audience.

Not all of these services generate much revenue, but owners view them as building blocks for an ecosystem that includes advertising, e-commerce and other ways to generate revenue.

We present to you comparative review the most popular messaging programs.

This service, which has a ghost on its logo, is used by about 100 million users. Using the application, you can 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 and recipient’s device, but are not deleted from Snapchat’s servers.

6.Line

This chat, very popular in Japan, is used by 211 million people. Initially it was intended for mobile phones with Android and iOS OS, then a version appeared for BlackBerry, Nokia Asha and Windows Phone. 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.

5. Viber

The best creation of Israeli developers is used by 249 million users. The PC app syncs your contact list, messages and call log with mobile device"host" and allows you to call for free to any devices of others Viber users, regardless of the country of location.

Chinese mobile encrypted instant messaging service with 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.

The top three most popular instant messengers in 2015 are headed by a service integrated into social Facebook network. 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. Was released in 2011 mobile version 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.

Facebook Inc. paid $18 billion for cross-platform whatsapp app, whose audience currently numbers more than 800 million people. This best messenger, presented in Russia. It has standard function messaging, as well as the ability to create groups and share video, photo and audio files. The text can be either manually typed or dictated. The program is linked to 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.

The most popular messenger in the world, developed Chinese Tencent. Every month, 843 million people exchange secure messages using it. It has several interesting features, such as a built-in software store, real-time translation, capturing a small part of the chat screen, or recording short video clips and sharing them with the other person.

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;

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

Incredible good quality communications (it is due to this that Skype fades into the background);

Opportunity to work in background, and does not drain the battery;

Integration with 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 landlines;

FlawsViber

Not found

4th place - WeChat

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;

Organizational capabilities 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.

In this article we will talk about what a messenger is in simple words, let's give examples popular programs and explain how they work. These applications are popular among users and have become widespread. Let's look at what a messenger is and how to use it.

First, let's talk about what it is - a messenger in mobile phone. It is an application that allows users to exchange messages in an instant. You can share both text and files various formats, for example, photographs, audio recordings or videos. All communication takes place exclusively via the Internet.

Most programs provide the ability to make calls (including video calls) and have built-in entertainment functions. Now you understand what the messenger is for, below we will discuss the functionality of the program. Can you study how a Viber representative works?

Let's note where the name came from and what the word messenger means. It is a translation of the English word messenger, which means “courier” or “messenger”.

How to use them

Let's highlight the main distinctive features and the capabilities of messengers, which will help us understand what they are and should be.

No data transfer fees, Internet traffic is consumed;
Instant data transfer;
Possibility to conduct conversations without additional payment;
Ability to transfer data of any format;
Saving message history;
Synchronization with contact list;
Demonstration of interlocutor statuses.

Application benefits:

Saving money;
High speed of communication.

Let's look at what applies to instant messengers, using the most downloaded applications as an example.

List of popular applications

There is a huge variety of messengers on the Internet, choose suitable program quite difficult. We have highlighted several examples and described their functions.

viber

This communication service has gained popularity thanks to its bright design and built-in stickers. In addition to the entertainment component, the program is distinguished by the ability to quickly transfer data and make calls.

Right now you can download Viber from the link https://o-viber.ru.

One of the oldest and most proven programs. A simple interface hides many convenient functions. Users can write messages, make calls to other cities and countries - the application is completely free, there are no in-app purchases.

Additionally, it is possible to create huge group chats and send documents of non-standard format.

Telegram blocked in Russia is the most safe program for communication. Available to users secret chats, the ability to self-destruct messages, a wide selection of stickers and news channels. The disadvantage is the lack of Russification.

Now you know what a messenger application is on an Android phone (or any other), and you can choose the appropriate program based on the information you have learned.

What a messenger on a phone is is probably known to every person without exception who uses modern “smart” phones – smartphones. But they are not the only ones that support such applications - today you can download a program for communicating via the Internet on a PC, on a tablet, and even on set-top box Smart TV. And this is not a joke, but a reality, since modern Internet technologies work real miracles!

If you don’t yet know what messenger is, or haven’t decided which application to give preference to, we will be happy to help you! Next, we will consider the most popular, well-known and reliable programs that are used for communication via the Internet by users from all over the world.

The concept of the words “messenger” and “messenger”

First, let's figure out what the word messenger means and what are the features of such an application?

A messenger is a program that is installed on a smartphone, PC or tablet to quick exchange text messages online. In addition, there are Internet messengers designed for communication exclusively on the World Wide Web.

Meaning of the term

Let's consider the meaning of the word "messenger". If translated literally from English language, then this term means “sender”, “one who sends a message, message, message”.

It is important to consider that such programs work exclusively via the Internet, even if they are installed on the phone. However, these applications have one advantage: they are not affected by Internet speed. Therefore, even if you use Internet services mobile operators, this will not affect the delivery of your messages to the recipient.

Types of messengers

We looked at what this messenger is for “dummies” - people who have not yet had the opportunity to take advantage of all the benefits of these programs, and who do not know the specifics of their functioning. Now let's move on to the classification of these applications. But it should be borne in mind that, as such, gradation does not exist.

Conventionally, messengers can be divided into the following types:

Mobile. Such applications are installed on smartphones and tablets.
Computer. The name speaks for itself - the programs are installed on a PC or tablet.
Internet messengers. What are instant messengers on the Internet? These are programs that run on certain Internet sites. But in lately Such communication has become less popular as mobile and desktop messaging programs are more convenient, and at the same time less demanding.

Of course, this is a conditional gradation of instant messengers, helping to better understand what kind of application it is. Reviews of the most best programs will be discussed later.

Messenger - what is it?

Many users wonder what a message is. But such a concept does not exist; most likely, they confuse it with the term “message”. It, in turn, is translated from English as “message, message.” That is, when you communicate with your friends in instant messengers, you send each other messages - regular text messages.

Messengers and social networks

Social networks provide more opportunities. You can use them not only to communicate, use media players or play games. Social networks provide their users with the opportunity to earn money - from groups, from likes, from subscriptions, etc.

Thus, the messenger is a simplified program for communicating in online chats. The most popular applications are WhatsApp, Viber, Telegram. But this is only the smallest part existing programs for communication.

Below are lists of what kinds of messengers there are, what their main features, advantages and disadvantages are. We will also consider in detail the questions of how to use them, and which programs are best to give preference to.

The best instant messengers for smartphones, tablets and computers

So, we have looked in detail at the question of what messengers are and what they are like. Now let's take a closer look at the list best apps for communication, which can be installed on your phone or tablet. Below is a list from which you can choose the most optimal option for yourself.

WhatsApp is one of the best messengers for communication. The principle of its operation is very simple:

You download the application to your smartphone or tablet, enter your phone number, and come up with a password.
The program synchronizes with your phone book, displaying all the contacts that are recorded there.
To contact the right person, whose number is not in your phone book, you must first add it to your contacts list. After this, the application must be restarted to new number appeared in it.

WhatsApp provides all the necessary opportunities for communication, but, compared to other messengers, it is, roughly speaking, rather weak. The fact is that it is impossible to call either mobile or landline phones using this program, so this application Perfect only for those who like to communicate via text messages.

Note. What is WhatsApp messenger for a tablet, and how to use it? You won't have any difficulties here. If your device does not have a SIM card slot, then first you need to download the application and log into your account using your username and password. After this, you will receive a confirmation code on your phone. Once you enter it, you will be able to use the messenger on your tablet in the same way as on your smartphone.

Viber

What is this program messenger viber, knows a huge number of users. This is one of the most convenient applications, which can be installed not only on a smartphone or tablet, but also on a computer.

Its main advantage is the ability to perform free video calls, and free communication with friends. Undoubtedly, this is the best messenger of all the programs that exist today. The principle of its functioning is close to that characteristic of WhatsApp.

You need to register your account by entering your phone number and creating a password. That's it - the application is ready to use. It syncs with your phone book, automatically adding all the contacts in it. If users from your TC are also registered in Viber, you can freely communicate with them.

Skype

Skype is the most popular instant messenger for PC. To register in the program, you need to create a login or enter an address email. Be sure to combine strong password– and then you will be able to use all the capabilities of this service. And they are very extensive!

With Skype you can make free calls to any corner of the world, send media files and text messages. In addition, there is a mobile Skype app, which you can use in the same way as computer program. Its undeniable advantage is that it is a messenger that can be used without necessarily specifying a phone number. You simply create your account and the program is ready to use.

What other messengers are there for your computer? The choice is really great. The list of the most popular programs for communicating via the Internet includes:

Telegram;
WhatsApp;
BILCO;
B-Slack;
YouMagic;
GTalk and many others.

Which messenger is best to choose to install on your computer – the choice is yours. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages, so, if necessary, you can always refuse to use one program in favor of another. Or install several applications at once to receive all the services that you require.

Other messengers

So, we reviewed the list of the most popular instant messengers for communicating from a phone, tablet and computer. Now let’s briefly go through the programs that work directly on the Internet. We will describe only the most popular of them.

VKontakte

Many users are wondering: is VK a messenger or not? In some ways, it can be classified in this category, but, nevertheless, it is a social network. However, its developers released mobile application“Vkontakte”, where you need to log in by entering the username and password that you use on the site. Then you will have access to all the functions of this service.

Classmates

Another social network that has its own application for the phone, and therefore, just like VK, can be conditionally classified as Internet messengers. The terms of use are the same: you log in using your username and password, and you can use the program to communicate with friends via phone, tablet or computer.

Messengers Megafon

What are messengers on Megafon? This is a unique service that is perfect for users who actively communicate in various programs for messaging on the Android platform (and not only).

So, if you are used to using mobile traffic other operators cellular communication at full power, then when exchanging messages using many instant messengers from the above reviews, you will have to spend significant amounts of money on constant replenishment of bonus megabytes. Megafon offers its own application for communication, which does not require the consumption of mobile traffic at all, and, accordingly, no money.

The essence of such an application is as follows. If you download and activate it, then even when communicating in other popular instant messengers, mobile traffic will not be taken into account by the operator. Thus, Megafon actively cooperates with such messengers as WhatsApp, TamTam, Facebook, Viber, eMotion and Telegram. The choice, as you can see, is wide, so you can easily find the best option for yourself.

Thus, we have studied in detail the issue of what applies to instant messengers and how to use these applications correctly. Now let’s make a brief summary to consolidate the results.

Conclusions

Communication via social media and special mobile/computer programs have a lot of advantages. You can easily contact anyone even on the other end Globe, and, in most cases, absolutely free.

We have reviewed in detail the most popular instant messengers for communicating via the Internet, and now it will be much easier for you to make your choice. Make the most of all the features of these programs and communicate with your friends, family and friends with pleasure!

In real time through instant messaging services (Instant Messaging Service, IMS). Text messages can be sent sound signals, images, videos, and also perform activities such as joint drawing or games. Such a program can be used to organize video conferencing.

Review

This type of communication requires a client program, the so-called messenger (from the English. message- message). The difference from email here is that messages are exchanged in real time. instant- instantly). Most IM clients allow you to see whether your at the moment subscribers included in the contact list. IN earlier versions programs, everything that the user typed was immediately transmitted. If he made a mistake and corrected it, it was also visible. In this mode, communication resembled telephone conversation. IN modern programs messages appear on the interlocutor’s monitor after editing and sending the message are completed.

As a rule, instant messengers do not work independently, but connect to a central computer in the messaging network, called a server. That's why messengers are called clients (client programs). The term is a concept from client-server technologies.

A wide range of users know a number of popular networks messaging, such as ICQ, Yahoo!. Each of these networks was developed by a separate group of developers, has a separate server and protocols, and has its own rules and features. There is usually no interconnection between different networks. Thus, an ICQ network user cannot contact an MSN network user. However, nothing prevents you from being a user of several networks at the same time.

Each network has its own messenger, developed by the same development team. So, to use the above networks, developers offer programs with the same names: ICQ, MSN Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger. Thus, if one of the recipients uses only the ICQ network, and the other uses only the MSN network, then you can communicate with them simultaneously by installing both ICQ and MSN Messenger on your computer, and registering in both networks.

As alternative messenger You can choose a third-party program: both commercial and free. Popular alternative programs for communication on the ICQ network are Miranda IM, R&Q. They also allow you to connect to multiple networks simultaneously, which eliminates the need to install a separate messenger for each network and allows you to communicate with all recipients in the same way, regardless of the network.

Most IM networks use closed protocols, so alternative clients may have fewer basic functions than official ones, but in practice the opposite is true. Also, in connection with periodic changes protocols on the server side of the network, alternative clients may suddenly stop working.

As an alternative to proprietary protocols for IM, the open Jabber protocol was developed, used in services such as Google Talk, Ya.Online, etc. This protocol is often used to organize communication in corporate and other local networks.

Links

Wikimedia Foundation. 2010.

Synonyms:

See what “Messenger” is in other dictionaries:

Noun, number of synonyms: 1 line (9) ASIS Dictionary of Synonyms. V.N. Trishin. 2013… Dictionary of synonyms

Client program in exchange systems instant messages(IM – Instant Messenger). Unlike e-mail, messaging occurs in real time (English: instant; messenger courier). Dictionary of business terms. Akademik.ru... ... Dictionary of business terms

"Messenger"- Interplanetary probe for the study of Mercury An interplanetary probe launched in 2004 to study Mercury. The project was developed by the US National Aerospace Agency under the leadership of Sean Solomon. The device made two approaches with... Encyclopedia of Newsmakers- Cm. ribonucleic acid(RNA) ... Dictionary in psychology

MESSENGER SECONDARY- (second messenger) a biological molecule that functions inside a cell, initiating its response to signals coming from chemical messengers (for example, hormones); They themselves cannot penetrate the cell. Examples of such secondary... ... Explanatory dictionary of medicine

Trillian Type Instant Messaging Program Developed by Cerulean Studios Written in... Wikipedia

Second messenger secondary messenger. A small molecule (or ion) formed in the cytoplasm in response to the interaction of a signaling molecule (hormone) with a receptor on the cell surface; V.m. participates in intracellular signal transmission from... ... Molecular biology and genetics. Explanatory dictionary.