Messaging Apps
Modern messaging apps do so much more than just send messages, and many are now hubs for a variety of activities.
The best messaging apps offer the ability to share files related to a project, store them in the cloud and are easily searchable within the app.
We’ve tested out a lot of different options, so here are some of the best messaging apps you will find on both Android and iOS.
WhatsApp is a rock-solid messaging app that uses end-to-end encryption by default for all Chats and Group Chats. It gives people and businesses a great way to keep in touch with just about everyone. WhatsApp is available for free to download on iOS and Android devices. You can download the latest version of WhatsApp to message with friends and family while your phone stays in your pocket.
Devices: Android, iPhone, iPad
Facebook is a social utility that connects us with the people, brands and organizations we care about. Facebook is a vital tool for teaching and learning in the 21st century and for making education more social. It is already being widely used in colleges and universities across the UK and globally, but it has the potential to be a game changer for teachers, schools and the classroom.
Devices: Android, iPhone, iPad
Crew is a free messaging tool you use at work. Crew helps managers and employees communicate by replacing text messages and email with one simple-to-use app. Crew app download is available for iOS (iPad and iPhone) and for Android devices.
Devices: Android, iPhone, iPad
Discord is a voice and text chat app designed to help gamers talk to each other in real time. While playing a game on their device, users can log into Discord and enter a group chat with one or more other gamers so they can talk while they play. The app is free, and it's available on just about any device. Whether you use Linux, Mac OS, or Windows, the desktop client is smooth and responsive. If you can’t install it, there’s a web client that works just as well. Discord is also available on Android and iOS devices.
Devices: Android, iPhone, iPad
Slack is the well-known communications app that can help you and your classroom get more done. Not only can Slack help you and your students better communicate on certain projects or tasks, but it can be a central hub to communicate about virtually anything related to your coursework. Slack is intuitive and easy to use, so you and your students won’t have any trouble communicating on the platform.
Devices: Android, iPhone, iPad
Zoom is a powerful cloud video conferencing platform that allows you to host “meetings” with hundreds of participants. Using Zoom, educators can share lesson plans, give instruction, swap files with students, and communicate directly with the group or individuals via chat, all within the app. Zoom's free version equips you with the most essential tools needed to communicate with others remotely. With this tool, quality is optimal, even for their non-paying users.
Devices: Android, iPhone, iPad
Google Hangouts is a communication platform developed by Google which includes messaging, video chat, SMS and VOIP features.
Devices: Android, iPhone, iPad
Skype is an instant messaging app that runs on every platform (desktop or mobile, and on the web also). It supports real-time chats and calls (either audio or video), audio or video group calls and documents transfer.
Devices: Android, iPhone, iPad