ICQ

Instant messaging systems gained widespread adoption in the mid-to-late 1990s, evolving from basic platforms like AIM and ICQ to advanced applications such as WhatsApp. WhatsApp has a large user base and complies with regulatory standards, but some users have concerns about its privacy practices despite claims of end-to-end encryption. This has led to the popularity of alternatives like Telegram, which offers a “secret chat” feature with end-to-end encryption but faces scrutiny due to recent developments involving the European Union and its founder's arrest. Users have diverse needs in messaging apps, ranging from simple functionality to advanced features like large file sharing and group communications. The top ten alternatives to Telegram and WhatsApp include: 1. Signal: Launched in 2015, it has 40 million users by 2022, focusing on privacy with instant messaging, voice/video calls, and group chats limited to five participants. 2. Viber: Facilitates community engagement with groups of up to 1,000 members, offers end-to-end encryption, and allows calls to landlines and mobile numbers. 3. Google Chat: Launched in 2017, it supports one-on-one and group chats, requires invitations to connect, and integrates with Google services. 4. Slack: Popular for organizational communication since 2009, it supports various content types and requires integration for certain features. 5. Twitch: Primarily a live-streaming platform, it includes a chat feature ideal for building a following, especially in gaming. 6. Snapchat: Evolved from a photo-sharing app to a messaging platform known for disappearing messages, targeting a younger audience. 7. Microsoft Teams: A corporate communication tool supporting individual/group chats, integrating with Microsoft Office, and gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. 8. Mighty Pro: Allows users to create their own community-building apps, featuring live streaming and discussion forums. 9. Discord: Designed for gamers, it serves as both a forum and live-streaming platform, focusing on social interactions rather than business. 10. Geneva: Facilitates group video chats with customizable chat rooms and basic scheduling features.