Android like iMessage

[Bigrover]

Is there a current android to android messaging service that works like iMessage between Apple devices? This is the only reason stopping me from getting the S6 Edge.

If not current, does anyone know of future hints at or plans for this? It would bring a lot of those on the fence over to android

 

[EarlyMon]

Definitely - Hangouts from Google.

Good on Android, PC and Mac.

And this add-on is a really popular alternative - Check out "WhatsApp Messenger"

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.whatsapp

But Hangouts comes included, works with everyone with a Gmail address. And that's part of the normal Android setup.

 

[Bigrover]

Does Hangouts or WhatsApp use your phone number or do you have to set up a screen name? Thanks for your reply

 

[EarlyMon]

Hangouts will chat with anyone with a Gmail address in your contacts for full service.

You can also make it your default SMS/MMS app if you want, so you can have Android-only chats (text, voice or video) and texts to iPhone buddies all in one place.

WhatsApp just uses your phone number and integrates with your address book (from the description). Others will have to say more about that, I'm good with Hangouts.

 

[EarlyMon]

Oh I forgot - sms in Hangouts works if you sign up for Google Voice.

That let's you assign your phone number to your phone or pc and make regular calls or wifi calls (just using phone numbers).

Sorry for any added confusion.

 

[uriweru]

Hangouts is definitely the way to go, I think I use it more than texting.