10 Communication Apps to Help Reduce Your Wireless Bill

by Don Reisinger

One of the nice things about Apple’s iOS is that it comes with a built-in messaging app aimed at sidestepping SMS charges. Apple’s iMessage allows users to send text messages to each other without going through the carrier’s network, essentially mitigating any issues with overage charges. The one big issue with iMessage, however, is that it only works with Apple products, so it won’t work with Android, BlackBerry or other mobile platforms.

WeChat has become a popular application for so many people because it’s so simple to use and goes above and beyond simple text messaging. The app allows users to make video calls, along with text messages and includes support for free voice messages. Best of all, it’s available as a free download.

Skype is yet another useful application for those who desire multiple modes of communication. The free app offers video chatting, of course, but it also allows for instant messaging and the ability to call actual phones with its Skype Out service. Although there’s a slight charge for calling regular phones, the cost isn’t nearly as bad as some wireless services.

Viber has become a Skype clone in many ways. The free app includes the ability to make free phone calls to other Viber users, and will also allow users to place calls to regular phone numbers through Viber Out. Like its top competitor, Viber also includes the ability to send text messages back and forth between friends and family.

WhatsApp received attention recently after Facebook announced that it would acquire the messenger service for $19 billion. The app works across platforms and is available as a free download. Users can send and receive messages, pictures, audio and video. The app is one of the more well-rounded offerings in this roundup, and works exceptionally well.

BlackBerry gets a nod this time around, thanks to its free BlackBerry Messenger service. With BBM, users can place text messages and voice calls without ever having to use minutes or worry about limits on messaging. And since it’s a cross-platform solution, unlike iMessage, anyone using BBM can send free messages to others who have downloaded the app.

One of the big issues with wireless charges is that data costs can quickly pile up. Realizing that, it might be a good idea to get your hands on the free Wi-Fi Finder. The app uses a phone’s location to find WiFi hotspots around town, giving users up-to-the-minute information on where they need to go to send and receive large amounts of data without using a carrier network. It’s a must-have for anyone trying to save money on wireless bills.

Facebook Messenger might soon be replaced by WhatsApp, but the free program is still kicking around in mobile app stores. The application lets users send messages to their friends on Facebook and create groups, so multiple users can chat at the same time. Facebook Messenger is a useful app for anyone who spends a lot of time communicating with friends through the world’s largest social network.

Kik Messenger has attracted a loyal following of more than 100 million users because it’s easy to use. The application lets users send and receive text messages, but also comes with a built-in browser, adding some extra flair not seen in most other apps. Another important Kik feature is the sharing option, which lets users send everything from sketches to photo galleries to YouTube videos.

Onavo Extend is a must-have for anyone trying to save money on data charges. The application, upon install, starts working in the background and performs a wide array of tasks to save users’ data. The app only loads images that users will see and not those they won’t. It balances image quality with data savings to minimize usage. It also provides daily feedback on how much data a person is using and how much he or she has saved by using the program. It’s a great app that can save money.