What is WhatsApp

While WhatsApp is a relatively unknown messaging software in the United States, it is an integral part of everyday life in many other areas of the world. The app, which is owned by Facebook, is arguably one of the most popular messaging services on the planet.

To appreciate WhatsApp's success, it's necessary to recognize that it was one of the first smartphone applications to offer free internet-based messaging. Rather than transmitting texts through cellular data networks, which may incur charges, WhatsApp depends heavily on a Wi-Fi connection to send and receive free messages and calls.

Now fast forward to the present: Over 2 billion people prefer WhatsApp for its ability to simplify conversations regardless of device or location.

What is WhatsApp?

WhatsApp, founded in 2009, is a free cross-platform messaging app that enables users to make video and phone conversations, send text messages, and share their status with just a Wi-Fi connection. One of the reasons this app is interesting is that it works across several phone and computer operating systems, allowing you to continue your chat at any time and from any location.

Additionally, it can make one-on-one or group conversations using Wi-Fi and cellular data, which eliminates the need for pricey calling rates. If this seems interesting thus far, continue reading to learn everything there is to know about WhatsApp.

How does WhatsApp work?

WhatsApp's primary main feature is that it enables users to make and receive calls and messages with just an internet connection, making it essentially free to use and excellent for international calling. There are no sign-up costs and no data plan limits to worry about.

While WhatsApp is similar to other messaging apps such as iMessage or Google Messages, it does have a few notable benefits, the most prominent of which is cross-platform capabilities (between Android and iOS, for example).

WhatsApp may appear to be nothing more than a text messaging program at first appearance, but it is capable of much more.

The following is a quick overview of WhatsApp's key features:

Voice and video calls:

In addition to voice calls, WhatsApp also offers video calls, including a group function, which allows up to eight participants on one call.

Voice messaging:

You can record and send voice messages to individual chats or group chats.

Secure messaging:

WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption, a secure communication standard where only the people who are messaging can read the messages.

Photos and video sharing:

You can send videos, photos, and GIFs without worrying that your images will be pixelated or not downloadable, which can sometimes happen across SMS messages between different mobile platforms and wireless carriers.

Document sharing:

WhatsApp lets you send all kinds of documents, such as PDFs, spreadsheets, and slideshows without the hassle of email or separate document-sharing apps.

Desktop access:

WhatsApp offers a desktop version for Mac and for PC.

WhatsApp Business:

WhatsApp's dedicated business account is designed so entrepreneurs can showcase their products and connect with their customers on a platform that's convenient and familiar.

The bottom line

WhatsApp shaped modern communication as we know it, and it continues to improve the user experience with new features. And, as Facebook's second-largest product with billions of devoted users, WhatsApp does not appear to be leaving anytime soon.