Ask BlackBerry diehards what's keeping them from jumping ship and one of the most common answers is BlackBerry Messenger, an always-on chat network that lets users communicate IM-style without having to sign up or use their monthly allotment of text messages.
WhatsApp brings that experience to iOS and Android. Use your data connection to send free, unlimited messages to other WhatsApp users over Wi-Fi or 3G. The app latches on to your phone number, shows you which contacts have it installed, and lets you chat away. You can also set status messages to inform contacts when you're, say, in a movie theater, running low on battery juice, or just in no mood to talk.
The pricing is simple. For iPhone, it's a $1 download, but the service is free. For Android, the download is free and service is free for first year, then $2 per year.
WIRED Send images, voice notes, and location data. Push notifications for new messages. Supports group chat.
TIRED No Windows Phone love or iPod touch support.
