Meta's free phone-number messenger for chats, voice notes and calls, used by billions worldwide.
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About WhatsApp
WhatsApp is the default messenger in much of the world, so its biggest feature is that the people you want to reach are probably already on it. You sign up with a phone number, then send texts, voice notes, photos, documents and stickers, make voice and video calls, and join groups and Communities. Chats and calls are end-to-end encrypted by default using the Signal Protocol, although Meta still collects metadata such as who you talk to and when. Channels add one-way broadcasts from creators and brands, and Meta AI is built into the app. Personal use is free with no subscription; Meta earns money from WhatsApp Business messaging and ads in the Updates tab. It runs on Android and iPhone, with desktop apps for Windows and Mac and a browser version. Your phone remains the primary device, though up to four other devices can be linked. People who distrust Meta's data practices usually look at Signal, while those who want large public groups move to Telegram.
Best for: Anyone who wants to reach friends, family and businesses on the messenger they already use.
Pros and cons
What works
- Almost everyone in many countries already has it
- Chats and calls are end-to-end encrypted by default
- Reliable group chats, voice notes and group video calls
Why people leave
- Owned by Meta, which collects usage metadata
- Requires a phone number to sign up
- Ads and Meta AI are creeping into the app
Top WhatsApp alternatives
See all 6- 1
Signal66.5The same easy chat experience with end-to-end encryption, run by a nonprofit that collects almost no metadata.
- 2
Telegram62.6Cloud-synced chats on every device, huge groups and public channels, without a phone-tethered setup.
- 3
Viber59.6Another free, encrypted mass-market messenger with good desktop apps and cheap calls to landlines.
- 4
Threema57.2Swiss, paid once, and usable without a phone number for people leaving over privacy concerns.
- 5
SimpleX Chat55.3No phone number or user ID at all, for those who want to cut ties with account-based messengers.
Why people left WhatsApp
In reviewers' own words, from reviews of the apps they moved to. These are their opinions, not ours.
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WhatsApp: common questions
Is WhatsApp free?
Yes, WhatsApp is free to use.
Is WhatsApp open source?
No, WhatsApp is not open source. Open-source alternatives include Signal, Threema and SimpleX Chat.
What platforms does WhatsApp run on?
WhatsApp is available for Web, Windows, macOS, iOS and Android.
What are the best alternatives to WhatsApp?
The highest-ranked WhatsApp alternatives right now are Signal, Telegram and Viber. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.