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Messaging apps have become an essential part of our daily lives, connecting people worldwide and enabling us to communicate efficiently and instantly. Whether to stay connected with friends and family or communicate with colleagues for work purposes, messaging apps are now the go-to choice for many. The RTC software development market has skyrocketed in recent years, largely due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The top messaging apps in the market are WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, WeChat, Viber, and Telegram. According to a report by Statista, an estimated 3.09 billion mobile phone users communicated via over-the-top messaging apps in 2021. By 2025, this number is expected to increase to 3.51 billion users. The market is set to become even more competitive with the emergence of new players such as Signal and Clubhouse, meaning modern messenger features need to evolve.
Source: Statista
Another exciting trend is the rise of messaging apps for business purposes. With more and more consumers turning to apps to interact with companies they purchase goods or services from, WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger now offer dedicated business solutions. WhatsApp Business now has over 50 million users.
Companies continuously implement new features into their solutions to meet the ever-changing customer demands. We’ve created a modern messenger features list so you can easily decide which could play the most critical role for your business.
It's not uncommon for users to switch between multiple devices throughout the day. Messaging apps should sync seamlessly with the cloud and other apps, ensuring the user can easily switch from one device to another without losing any information. Real-time synchronization across multiple devices enhances user convenience, allowing them to stay connected across conversations.
Chatbots are becoming increasingly popular in messaging apps as they can enhance customer service and boost customer satisfaction levels. They enhance the overall functionality of messaging apps, making them even more convenient for users who can directly interact with the company's chatbot to get instant assistance and answers to their queries.
Messaging apps hold confidential and sensitive information, and data breaches can be disastrous. Apps that offer end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, regular app updates, password managers, enhanced server-side security, etc., can guarantee that user communication and data are safe from hackers and other external threats. Biometric security measures, such as fingerprint authentication or facial recognition, can add an extra layer of protection to the app.
A swift and straightforward sign-in and registration process is crucial for a better user experience. Users prefer apps that let them log in using their social media profiles or authentication processes like phone numbers, email addresses, etc., which helps save time and provides convenience. Quick and hassle-free registration processes attract users to the app, leading to a higher user retention rate.
Users accumulate a large number of data files like texts, videos, images, and other files when using a messaging app. That is why they must be integrated with cloud storage to manage all this data efficiently. Cloud backup ensures that users don't lose their data due to device crashes or replacements, making messengers a reliable medium for communication.
Voice and video calls play a critical role in modern real-time communication solutions, and a messaging app that can support both features for free enhances user experience. Such features eliminate the need to shift to other communication apps to make calls and create a seamless experience.
If you want to outrun competitors and win a top spot on the market, you need to offer unique products. Users expect a messaging app to provide various advanced communication features beyond simple text/voice messaging. We’ve collected the ones that are becoming increasingly popular among top messengers.
Integrating voice assistants such as Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa can allow users to send messages and interact with the app without typing. Voice assistants can also help to automate tasks, such as setting reminders or sending messages to frequently contacted individuals.
Messaging apps that integrate payment options can facilitate seamless transactions between users, enabling them to send and receive payments without leaving the app. This feature can be handy for maintaining high-quality customer service and support.
With remote work and distance learning becoming more prevalent, messaging apps that offer group video calls can be incredibly useful. Users can connect with multiple people simultaneously and engage in real-time conversations, making communication more effective and efficient.
Integrating AR into messaging apps can make conversations more engaging and interactive. AR features can allow users to add filters and effects to their messages, creating fun and creative ways to communicate.
As smart home technology rises, chat apps could integrate with these devices to provide added convenience. For example, users could adjust their thermostat, turn on the lights, or lock their doors through the app. Additionally, chat apps could provide voice assistant capabilities, allowing users to access information or complete tasks through voice commands.
This feature is perfect for those who like to keep their conversations private and confidential. Users can set a timer on their messages, after which they will disappear from both the sender and recipient's view. This feature gives users peace of mind, knowing their conversations won't fall into the wrong hands.
Feeds are an excellent way for users to stay updated on the latest news and updates from their friends and favorite influencers in one place. Users can customize their feeds to see content that is most relevant to them, whether that's photos, videos, or text updates.
Public channels are an excellent way for users to connect with people who have similar interests and hobbies. Users can join channels related to topics such as music, sports, or fashion and connect with like-minded individuals worldwide. This feature is perfect for those looking to expand their social circle and meet new people.
Audio rooms provide users with a live audio chat experience. Users can join rooms related to topics such as politics, music, or sports and engage in live audio conversations with people from all over the world. This feature is ideal for those who want meaningful discussions with others but prefer to do so in a more intimate setting.
When creating software architecture, it's essential to remember that these advanced features of messenger must align with the needs and preferences of the app's target audience. Conducting thorough research before incorporating any features can help ensure that users find them valuable and that they enhance the user experience. Ultimately, the success of a messaging app depends on its usability and ability to solve user problems effectively.
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