WhatsApp Messenger
Text, call, and chat with individuals and groups data-free.
Parents say
Based on 15 reviews
Kids say
Based on 38 reviews
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WhatsApp Messenger
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this app.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that WhatsApp Messenger lets users start video calls and send text messages, videos, photos, and audio messages to one or many people with no message limits or fees. Messages can only be sent to other smartphone users who also have WhatsApp, which is available on different devices. The app checks your phone's address book for WhatsApp users and connects you automatically. It also encourages you to urge friends not using the app to sign up. Privacy and security can be customized in settings, including a two-step verification feature uses a PIN for added account security and the ability to turn off location sharing. Users also have the ability to send disappearing photos, videos, and GIFs through the Status feature, which is similar to features on Instagram and Snapchat. Read the developer's privacy policy for details on how your (or your kids') information is collected, used, and shared and any choices you may have in the matter, and note that privacy policies and terms of service frequently change. Under the CCPA law you have the right to protect your personal information. Make a Do Not Sell request to Whatsapp.
Community Reviews
A lot safer for younger teens
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What’s It About?
WHATSAPP MESSENGER uses push notifications to allow users to send each other unlimited text messages without data limits or international charges. As with most messaging apps, teens can send text, videos, documents, and GIFs to individuals or groups, make calls, and use filters. Within a chat, teens can use Live Location to share where they are and stop sharing whenever they choose. The status feature allows users to share updates with all of their contacts at once, or they can also use the broadcast feature to send out messages to selected contacts.
Is It Any Good?
Families with some members living or traveling internationally will find this tool valuable. The voice-messaging feature's impressively clear audio is a plus, as are group texting and check marks that confirm messages have been sent and read. As the app adds fun and cosmetic features, it stays competitive with some of the other top apps for teens, and its no-fee system makes it appealing, especially for those with family and friends in other countries. It presents the same hazards as other social media apps but is message-focused and has more family-friendly reputation. The biggest pitfalls are probably huge group messages and disappearing messages, so parents should talk to teens about the potential hazards -- and their limits around -- these features.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about limits with WhatsApp Messenger and other apps: During what hours are kids allowed to text? How much screen use are they allowed?
Talk about the types of information that are best shared in text messages and the types best discussed in person. Let kids know that tone isn't always clear, and emojis can't fill in every blank.
Discuss location sharing and the risks it has. When might it be useful to share your location, and with whom? When is it a bad idea?
App Details
- Devices: iPhone, Mac, Android, Windows app
- Skills: Communication: conveying messages effectively, multiple forms of expression, Tech Skills: social media, using and applying technology
- Pricing structure: Free
- Release date: October 30, 2019
- Category: Social Networking
- Topics: Friendship
- Publisher: WhatsApp Inc.
- Version: 2.19.22
- Minimum software requirements: iOS 8.0 or later; Android varies
- Last updated: November 19, 2019
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For kids who love to express themselves
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