What is Instant Messaging?

Instant messaging or IM is an exchange of real-time or asynchronous messages over an autonomous app or an embedded chat within another app. Instant messaging application is used by anyone to send messages. There are many benefits of instant messaging commonly referred to as IM. One can easily communicate with one another by using their IM apps. For workplaces, instant messaging platforms are essential. In this article, we are going to discuss what is Instant messaging, the advantages of Instant messaging, and some useful Instant messaging Applications.

What is Instant messaging (IM)?

Instant messaging is an exchange of real-time or asynchronous messages over an autonomous app or an embedded chat within another app. Instant Messaging also called IM refers to real time communication with the user at the other end through an application called as Instant Messenger. Most of the instant messengers use a client-server model where messages from a user are sent to the server first and then forwarded to the recipient. One can participate in real-time conversations over mobile phones and laptops. In order to set up an instant message, you have to add the usernames of the people you want to message to your contact list. When they log in and/or out of their IM software you are instantly alerted unless they have set themselves to invisible.

Instant Messaging Applications

Below are some instant messaging applications.

1. WhatsApp

• WhatsApp is a free Instant Messenger application that anyone can use for sending messages.
• WhatsApp is a very popular messaging platform which has over 2.7 billion monthly active users.
• One can use WhatsApp to send audio, video, images, and documents from their Storage device.
• Even one can send his real-time audio and video using WhatsApp.
• WhatsApp can be used on devices such as mobile phones, tablets and laptops.

2. Google Chat

• Google Chat is developed by Google.
• Google Chat is a Instant Messaging app which was developed initially for business professionals but later on it was made available for general users.
• Google chat is used to communicate directly with people or communicate in small groups for work discussion.
• Google Chat is a communication software that helps businesses of all sizes and non-profit organizations collaborate on projects and tasks.

3. Skype

• Skype is application software that is used for conversation.
• Millions of individuals and businesses use Skype to make free video and voice one-to-one and group calls.
• It is used for sending instant messages and files with other people on Skype.
• One can use Skype application on mobile, computer or tablet. Skype provide end-to-end encryption services for protecting user data and privacy.
• These feature of Skype protects you from potential eavesdropping by malicious users.

4. Rediff Bol

• Rediff Bol is an organization email based simple and secure instant based messaging software chat service for large group communication and work management.
• The most useful feature of Rediff Bol is you can choice whatever language of your own choice (Indian languages).
• It is freely available service that anyone can use.
• There is end to end encryption and audit logs available for compliance.
• Users can post, text capture pictures, audio and video conference, schedule meetings, conferences and screen share.
• It is fully integrated with web and mobile app.
• Users can enjoy single sign on between mail, contacts and Rediff Bol.

5. Facebook Messenger

• Facebook Messenger is a instant messenger application owned by Facebook.
• It is used for instant messaging, sharing photos, videos, audio recordings and group chats.
• It allows Facebook users to connect with each other.
• In order to use Facebook Messenger one mush have a Facebook account.
• It is available on both Android and iOS.
• Facebook Messenger also provides end-to-end encryption since 2016.

Advantages of Instant Messaging

Some of the advantages of Instant messaging app are mentioned below :

• It is a real-time conversation app.
• It is faster than any other mode of communication.
• One can send messages , video clips, audio, images using these messenger apps.
• One can transfer files, documents, text documents and other documents of different forma type.
• Users can share their live location, which helps them in navigation.
• There is no time limit , one can use these apps as per their suitable time i.e. when they are free.
• User can make groups where they can join as many people as they want for conversation.
• Easy to use.
• Instant messenger systems are more likely to be paid attention to by anyone than emails are.

Disadvantages of Instant Messaging

Some of the disadvantages of Instant messaging app are mentioned below :

• Instant Messaging are potentially open to misuse.
• Most Instant messenger apps are not secure and not trustable.
• Some instant messenger systems will not enable you to search for previous conversations when you log in to a new session.
• Sometimes these application become too distracting and time wasting.
• Unnecessary advertisement pop up in these applications.

FAQs on Instant Messaging

Q.1: What is Instant Messaging Application?

Answer:

Instant messaging is an exchange of real-time or asynchronous messages over an autonomous app or an embedded chat within another app.

Q.2: Is Facebook and Facebook Messenger same?

Answer:

No, Facebook and Facebook Messenger are not same. Facebook Messenger is only used for conversation like sending texts, video and audio while on Facebook we can upload our pictures, stories which will be permanently available on our profile.

Q.3: What are the 2 types of instant messaging?

Answer:

Two types of instant messaging softwares are application based and Web based.