WiFi messaging

[peasblossom]

And it is specifically messaging I'm interested in. Is anyone aware of an Android app (NOT WhatsApp, please) that can be used for sending text messages abroad? Ideally I'd like one that doesn't require the other person to use the same app, but that might be tall order.

[Simon]

I don't know specifically about sending texts abroad, but if you don't want to use WhatsApp (which would have been my suggestion), maybe the Google Messages app might be worth a look?

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

Alternatively there's obviously the default SMS app on any device.  I presume you're looking for something that doesn't cost extra to message abroad?

I've heard the Telegram app is good, but I've no personal experience of it, and I believe the recipient would also need to have it installed. 

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.telegram.messenger

[nowster]

Signal (preferred), Telegram, Google Chat, WhatsApp.

Both sides need to have the same app.

I'm hearing rumours of some shenanigans happening with Telegram. That's why I'd suggest Signal by preference.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.thoughtcrime.securesms

Google Messages is the standard SMS/MMS/RCS app, which uses your operator's (chargeable) services.

[peasblossom]

Except if you use RCS messaging over WiFi, then it shouldn't cost anything. So I think I'll use that.

https://support.google.com/messages/answer/9487020?hl=en

Plus:

https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/what-is-rcs-messaging/

[nowster]

Be aware that having RCS active has been known to cause SMS messages to be dropped silently, especially verification codes from banks, online services, doctor reminders, power company outage notifications, etc.

I've experienced that myself so have RCS firmly turned off. (Android 14 on Pixel 7A, on EE network)

I do however have Signal, Telegram, WhatsApp, etc. active.

[peasblossom]

Be aware that having RCS active has been known to cause SMS messages to be dropped silently, especially verification codes from banks, online services, doctor reminders, power company outage notifications, etc.

I would imagine using it only for certain messages and then reverting to sms the majority of the time. Can you see that being an issue? (Android 13)