Instant messaging is the perfect way to keep in touch with friends and family when you’re on-the-go. IM first began with the launch of CU-SeeMe in 1993 for desktop PC’s. In recent years we have seen messaging software become widespread for mobile devices and they have quickly become the norm in terms of communication standards of today. These so called “SMS killers” can save you a lot of money as they allow you to send messages practically free of charge.
Below we’ve compiled a list of some of the top mobile instant messaging applications that can connect you to one of the many IM protocols such as Google Talk, Yahoo!, MSN and so on. Some can even link you to social networks, plus allow you to connect all your chat accounts to one convenient location. Be sure to have an internet service such as 3G enabled on your device, as these applications make use of an internet connection.
1. RockeTalk (Java, Symbian, Blackberry)
RockeTalk is a mobile client application that provides a variety of easy-to-use multimedia services. A social media platform is also included allowing users to share text, voice, photos, video messages and more.
A variety of IM protocols are supported, including networks like Windows Live Messenger, Yahoo! and Google Talk. The application will also keep you updated with its “What’s Hot” feature in the admin panel.
RockeTalk is also well known for its galleries and content posted by other users. Ringtones, videos, wallpapers and more can also be freely downloaded.
2. eBuddy (Java, iOS, Android, Blackberry, Web)
eBuddy processes over 17 billion messages each month, making it one of the most popular and widely used instant messaging platforms. It was the world’s first web based messaging service (launched in 2003), and has since expanded to include mobile based applications as well.
Supported protocols are Yahoo!, Windows Live Messenger, Google Talk, ICQ, AIM, Facebook and MySpace. If you choose to use the web based version of eBuddy on your mobile phone, you will enjoy the benefits of no registration, downloads or installations.
eBuddy also allows users to login to multiple IM accounts simultaneously. You can even choose an avatar from your gallery, or snap a new image with your camera.
3. NimBuzz (Java, iOS, Android, Blackberry)
Nimbuzz is another very popular messaging application, and includes a number of features ranging from making phone calls to sharing files on your mobile device. This includes photo, video and music sharing as well as face-to-face location sharing.
The multi-award winning application enables users to communicate via a number of different protocols, including Windows Live Messenger, Skype, Google Talk, Yahoo!, AIM, ICQ, GaduGadu, Hyves, StudiVZ, Giovani, Twitter, Facebook and even more.
Nimbuzz incorporates a mobile VOIP service, and allows for online phone calls and SMS’s directly on your mobile.
4. Mig33 (Java, iOS, Android, Blackberry, Windows Mobile)
Mig33 is well known for its lightning fast performance, and is used by well over 50 million people today. It includes integrated messaging, miniblogging, virtual gifting, games, and image sharing. Chatrooms are easily accessible allowing you to make new friends easily.
Supported protocols include Windows Live Messenger, Yahoo!, Facebook and more. Migg33 makes use of minimal data transfer, so you will keep your rates low!
The ability to make phone calls and send SMS’s at nominal rates is also included with the application.
5. Agile Messenger (Symbian, iOS, Android, Blackberry, Palm OS)
Although Agile Messenger is no longer offered free of charge, it’s a legendary mobile IM application and merits mentioning. The feature rich software allows you to combine many IM platforms in one location. Other benefits include push-to-talk and photo/video messaging.
Agile Messenger allows you to talk to your Windows Live Messenger, AIM, Yahoo!, ICQ, Jabber and Google Talk contacts.
You can try Agile Messenger for free, and if you like it you can continue using the software at a small yearly charge.
Peter Kelly is a Field Operations Technician for AT&T wireless, and specializes primarily in wireless communication systems. In his spare time he likes to write articles related to portable mobile devices, prepaid wireless internet for laptops and 3G services.
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I’ve been using Agile Messenger for a few years now, and it’s one of the greatest mobile messenging apps by a long stretch. I still remember when Agile Messenger was offered for free, however the charge that was introduced is well worth it in my opinion. It’s definitely the most stable and well performing messenging client I have ever experienced.