Google Messenger vs WhatsApp - a comparison
In our comparison Google Messenger vs. WhatsApp we show you similarities and differences between the two messenger apps.
Google Messenger vs. WhatsAPP SMS and MMS in material design
With the Google Messenger, the Internet giant wants to once again clearly separate communication via the Internet and SMS / MMS. The app has been available on the Google Play Store since November 12th.
- Registration: No additional registration is required to use the Google Messenger. Because the app only uses the SMS or MMS protocol. So only a SIM card with a working telephone number and possibly credit is required. You can also write a message to people who don't have Google Messenger installed.
- Establishing contacts: Google has not implemented any innovations here either. As before, you need the phone number of your counterpart. This is the only way to send a message to the person. Google Messenger accesses your phone book to make it easy for you to establish contacts.
- Features: Google limits itself to the basics of the messenger app. It is possible to send SMS / MMS to individuals or groups. You can also search or archive messages that have already been sent.
- Design: The Google Messenger appears in the new material design, which was designed for Android 5.0 Lollipop. This is simple and uses clear edges. Many bright colors are used to set accents.
- Cost: The messenger app has been free so far and will most likely remain so. The only costs you may have to bear are the costs of sending SMS and MMS. However, these depend on your mobile phone contract.
- With its messenger, Google is launching an SMS app that corresponds to Google's look and feel. No more, no less.
WhatsApp - widely used messaging service
WhatsApp is a very frequently used chat app and is already represented on many devices. This is also available in the Google Play Store.
- Registration: Before you can use WhatsApp, you have to register your phone number. However, this is only necessary once to verify your smartphone.
- Establishing contacts: WhatsApp also uses your phone book or telephone numbers to create a chat between two people. WhatsApp automatically checks which people have installed WhatsApp in your contact book. Accordingly, you can only communicate with people who also have WhatsApp installed.
- Features: In contrast to Google Messenger, you can also send pictures, audio or video files over the Internet. It is also possible to create group chats.
- Design: The WhatsApp design has changed little since its publication. The development team partially adheres to Google's design guidelines and otherwise uses its own "WhatsApp Styel".
- Costs: The WhatsApp service can be used free of charge in the first year. After that, you have to pay 89 cents for each additional year. There are no additional costs for this.
Conclusion: Google Messenger vs. Whatsapp
- The two services use different ways of communication. Google Messenger is only of interest to you if many of your friends can also send free SMS.
- In other cases, communication via the Internet is a good idea, as with WhatsApp, since here, in addition to the 89 cents, there are no other costs. However, everyone has to install the app first.
Tip: Also read our comparison between Google Hangouts and WhatsApp.