5 Messaging apps for Mobile Phone:

The recent ban on bulk SMS has left many furious, especially youngsters who rely on it to stay connected with friends and family. If you are into heavy texting and chatting with friends and family, then the recent extension of 20 SMS cap may also not be sufficient. In this mobile-age, there are several messaging applications and software that would come to your rescue. We’ve listed some such apps. Needless to say, popular mobile platforms have their App Stores inundated with apps, but owners of feature phones running on Java also have a couple of options. Let's take a look at some of the options available:

1. Nimbuzz:The Nimbuzz messenger is a great alternative to your usual SMS. It allows sending messages, photos, music and even videos. It helps keep expensive (SMS) text messaging or multimedia (MMS) charges at bay. Moreover, it supports all leading mobile brands and even the lesser known ones, which means it is compatible with smartphones as well as feature phones from Samsung, Nokia, HTC, Lemon, Alcatel and more. Nimbuzz users can also join chat rooms to make new friends. Furthermore, Nimbuzz can also be used on your PC or Mac.

This app is Available for Android, BlackBerry,iOS, Java/MiDP/J2ME, Nokia

2. eBuddy:

eBuddy is yet another web and mobile messenger service that could come to your rescue. eBuddy XMS could easily replace your exorbitantly priced SMSes. It allows users to send texts, fun-filled emoticons, pictures, videos and more. The web client supports all browsers. Besides, the app aggregates all your IM networks like AIM, Facebook Chat, Gtalk, ICQ, MySpace, Windows Live Messenger and Yahoo! in one place. This service is available in more than 30 languages.

This app is Available for Android, BlackBerry, iOS,  Meego, Windows Phone 7

3. Pinch:
This app may not be very popular but it’s quite effective. Users can send and receive SMS like text messages to anyone in their address book from Pinch. Moreover, your friends don't even need to have the Pinch app to get your message. The app supports group messaging functionality and can be used on almost all platforms, including Java and Symbian. It takes off the limitation of exchanging messages with only those buddies who have the application installed.

This app is Available for Android, BlackBerry,  iOS,Java, Symbian

4. WhatsApp:

This messaging service needs no introduction. It has become quite a rage among mobile friends. WhatsApp is a trending messaging service that lets you keep in touch with a neat chat-like interface and allows sharing images, audio and video files instantly. Users can form groups and stay in touch with pals all along.

This app is Available for Android, iOS, Blackberry, Symbian (S40 and S60) and Windows Phone (Windows Phone 7.5 and above)

5. Fring:

Fring is a popular alternative to your usual SMS. Just like most of the messaging apps, it supports on-the-go live chatting and also video chats. Interestingly, it also supports group video chats, allowing up to four users to video chat. Besides, it also supports free voice calls and cheap international calls.

This app is Available for Android,  iOS, Symbian