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10 Popular Free Messaging Apps 

Marina AstapchikMarina Astapchik
Marina Astapchik
Digital Content Manager
November 26, 2015

In 2025, apps for messaging still play a major role in global communication. The leading free online messaging apps include WhatsApp, WeChat, Facebook Messenger, Telegram, Snapchat, QQ, Discord, Viber, Instagram Direct, and CoMessenger. WhatsApp leads in usage with over 2.7 billion users, while Telegram and Discord are popular for privacy and community communication. Analytics show that messengers are now used for payments, shopping, and business, with 80% of users logging into at least two platforms daily.

Average Retention Rates
Average Retention Rates

Key Takeaways

  • WhatsApp leads the messaging market with 2 billion monthly users and is the most popular app in over 60 countries.
  • The number of active messaging users worldwide exceeds 3 billion. 
  • Snapchat generates the highest in-app purchase revenue among messaging apps, bringing in $18.07 million per month.

WhatsApp 

WhatsApp, one of the top instant messaging apps, had 2.7 billion users in 2025. WhatsApp supports group chats, voice and video calls, and encrypted messaging. Companies use WhatsApp Business to support customers and run promotions. Travel agencies send itinerary updates and boarding passes via WhatsApp, making it a trusted global platform for personal and business communication.

WeChat 

Among leading apps for messaging, WeChat is a super-app in China and beyond, combining chat, payments, and social media for 1.3B users. Travelers use WeChat to book hotels, translate, and make mobile payments. Restaurants in Beijing accept WeChat Pay, and the app’s “Mini Programs” let you shop, book transportation, and book local tours, all in one interface.

Facebook Messenger 

Online messaging apps like Facebook Messenger offer text messages, voice and video calls, games, and business bots. With over 1.2 billion users, Messenger enables instant communication and supports business pages. Airlines provide real-time flight updates and customer support services through Messenger, and users can send money, share locations, or plan events — all in one app.

Telegram 

A standout among apps for messaging, Telegram is known for privacy, large group chats, and channels. With 900 million users, it supports file sharing, encrypted chats, and cloud syncing. Travel communities use Telegram to share tips, guides, and real-time alerts, while businesses use it for live streaming and customer support.

Snapchat 

Top instant messaging apps like Snapchat focus on ephemeral messages and augmented reality filters. More than 750 million users share photos, stories, and locations. Brands are using Snapchat for interactive augmented reality campaigns. For example, travel companies are creating themed augmented reality lenses, increasing engagement and brand awareness among young travelers.

QQ

Online messaging apps like QQ remain popular in China and Asia, with 700 million users. QQ offers messaging, games, and cloud storage. QQ supports translation and travel information bots, making it a useful tool for international travelers looking for local tips or connections to local contacts abroad.

Discord

Apps for messaging like Discord provide gamers and communities with text, voice, and video chat, as well as their own servers. More than 600 million users join travel and hobby groups, share tips, and plan group trips. Digital nomads, for example, organize meetups in coworking spaces or exchange travel tips through Discord servers, making it a hub for niche communities.

Viber 

Among online messaging apps, Viber is known for its secure calls and stickers, with 500 million users. Viber offers encrypted messages, international calls, and business chats. Travel agencies use Viber to send booking confirmations and local recommendations to travelers, especially in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

Instagram Direct 

Top instant messaging apps include Instagram Direct, with over 900 million users. Travelers share the best moments of their trips, chat, and join group discussions. Brands use Direct to run influencer campaigns and customer surveys. For example, travel influencers answer followers’ questions about destinations, hotels, or local attractions in direct messages.

CoMessenger 

Emerging apps for messaging like CoMessenger offer cross-platform encrypted chat and file sharing. For example, travelers use CoMessenger to coordinate plans, share documents, and communicate securely with local guides. Translation and offline messaging features are popular for international travel and in remote areas.

“Popular free instant messaging apps have revolutionized global communication by offering instant connectivity, media sharing, and integrated services — all for free. Their versatility and reach make them indispensable tools for both personal and business communication in today’s digital world”.

Elinext Group Yauheni Shauchenka,

Product Delivery Manager

Take advantage of messaging apps.

A dedicated messaging app can offer unique features, branding, and data privacy that standard platforms cannot.

Companies use dedicated apps to streamline collaboration, protect sensitive information, and provide a seamless user experience that builds customer loyalty and engagement.

Conclusion

Mobile app development services ensure apps for messaging keep evolving in 2025. The most popular apps are WhatsApp, WeChat, Messenger, Telegram, and Discord, which offer secure chats, payments, and communities. WhatsApp leads in global reach, while Discord leads in creating group communities. Analytics show that 80% of users regularly use multiple messengers for different purposes, such as personal, travel, or work. Agencies that use messaging APIs improve customer support and engagement, making modern messengers indispensable for digital communication.

FAQ

What are the most popular free messaging apps right now?

The top instant messaging apps in 2025 include WhatsApp, WeChat, Facebook Messenger, Telegram, and Discord. For example, WhatsApp leads the world, WeChat dominates in China, and Discord is popular for group communities and travel planning.

What app should I use for group chats or communities?

Online messaging apps Discord and Telegram are great for group chats and communities. For example, Discord offers customizable servers for hobbies or travel, while Telegram supports large channels and easy file sharing for planning or exchanging tips.

Do these apps work on both Android and iOS?

Yes, top instant messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Messenger, and Discord work on both Android and iOS. For example, users can chat, call, and share files across devices, ensuring seamless communication regardless of the platform.

What’s the best app for video calls?

Apps for messaging like WhatsApp, Messenger, and Viber all offer quality video calls. For example, WhatsApp is popular for personal chats, Messenger supports group video calls, and Viber is great for secure international calls. Choose based on your needs!

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