Kik Messenger is a cross platform smartphone application that allows users to communicate with one another no matter what type of phone they are using, but there are a few other tools you may want to try
1) WhatsApp Messenger
WhatsApp is a subscription based, cross platform messaging program for smart phones.
Advantages: This program is available on compatible Android, iOS and Blackberry mobile devices. It allows for the embedding of images, video, and text messages.
Disadvantages: The program does require a subscription, though it is miniscule at a mere $0.99 per year. It also requires a data or Wi-Fi connection to be able to send pictures, video or simple text messages. The app itself has also had reports of security problems in the past, though there is no information on whether or not this has been resolved.
Official Site: http://www.whatsapp.com
2)Unison
Unison is a commercial chat program designed for smart phones and other mobile devices.
Advantages: This program allows users to create secure rooms where work or chatting can be completed. It was created as a teamwork platform because things like email and instant messengers were deemed too slow.
Disadvantages: This program is designed more for businesses than for single users, as the program is priced monthly per user.
Official Site: https://www.unison.com/index
3) Ebuddy
Ebuddy is a web and mobile based chat program that allows users to consolidate all of their chat usernames into one streamlined program.
Advantages: This cross platform program allows users on computers and on mobile devices to keep all of their chat usernames, for programs such as Yahoo, AOL, ICQ, Google Talk and others, all in one easy-to-manage place.
Disadvantages: The program does not have as much support as it once did, due to the decline of instant messaging programs.
Official Site: http://www.ebuddy.com
4) WeChat
WeChat is an all-in-one mobile communications program and social network, available for free.
Advantages:This is a private program, and hailed by many as an alternative to Facebook and other social media networks. It provides a cross-platform network for photos, video, chat, and other options.
Disadvantages:While it may rise in the future to rival Facebook and other social media sites, currently it is limited to a few users. It also requires some form of data connection to function.
Official Site: http://www.wechat.com/en/
5) Kakao
Kakao is a multi function, cross platform free chat and social networking program.
Advantages: This program is available on PC, as well as multiple mobile devices. It is designed to provide an alternative to things such as Facebook and MySpace, by providing chat, social networking, music, and other options. It is fast on most devices, and free.
Disadvantages: It may not be possible to keep chat data between the program on different devices, such as switching between iOS and Android.
Official Site: http://www.kakao.com/talk/en
The world is constantly connected, and as such, new and faster program are needed to keep up with the constant communication. As mobile devices get more advanced, it becomes much easier to create the high end chat and communications programs that will meet these growing demands.
