WhatsApp Messenger is the biggest app currently hitting the news- and message waves. Never heard of it? It is a “cross-platform mobile messaging app that allows you to exchange messages without paying for SMS.” The numbers for it are staggering: Some 400 million people around the world already use the app, and Facebook just purchased it in a multi-billion dollar deal. You don’t have to be part of the iPhone revolution to take part, Blackberrys, Androids, Windows Phone, Nokia and iPhones can all message each other for no extra cost because WhatsApp uses the same internet data plan already in use for email and web browsing.
WhatsApp’s additional features are what really make it stand out. Unlike traditional messaging, you have the option to start a group message under a subject title with up to 10 people, and recipients can easily leave the message, if they so choose. It also offers the option of sending a “broadcast message” to multiple people, which is like a blind carbon copy of an email. Sending contact information or sharing your GPS location is simple with this app.
There are some negatives to the app. It may takes some time convincing your most frequent text message buddies and nonusers to download. It also doesn’t offer a video option, and isn’t usable on PCs or tablets. However, if you are committed to your current wireless plan or have family overseas, this app may be worth a try.
Information and quotes from: http://www.whatsapp.com/