But only a few group chat apps, like Slack and Microsoft Teams, actually integrate with third-party services.
(There are a few exceptions-Instagram messenger is difficult to use from a computer or tablet, and iMessage is stuck in Apple’s ecosystem). Multi-Platform Use: Most of these apps are cross-platform, which means that you can access them through any tablet or PC.Statuses are useful for workplaces and internet-centric friend groups, but they’re rarely useful for sports teams, schoolmates, bands, or fraternities. This way, friends know that you’re “online,” “away,” in a meeting, or getting your hair cut. Statuses: Some of these apps, like Slack and Discord, allow you to set a public status.So, some chat apps, like Slack, Discord, and Microsoft Teams, have a “channels” feature that allows you to easily organize and jump between conversations. Channels: It’s hard to separate conversations in a group chat.Only a few services, however, like Whatsapp, Slack, and Microsoft Teams, allow you to send documents and files. File Sharing: You can share photos with any group chat app.Voice Video Chat: Most group chat apps, including Instagram and Facebook, support group voice and video chat.They have read receipts and typing bubbles (even in groups), and messages are sent and received without much lag. Live Chatting: Every app in this article is built for “live chatting.” In other words, they feel more like chat rooms than text messages.So, before we start looking at apps, let’s take a second to go over some of the features that may be important to you. Some have the look and feel of texting, while others are built explicitly for workplaces or gamers. What to Look for in a Group Messaging AppĪll group messaging apps have their quirks. Here are a few of our favorites, along with some notes on why they might be right for you.
But if you want to avoid the hellfire of SMS group texts, then you and your friends need to agree on a single app. Group chats are invaluable to any team, band, workplace, or clique.