Viber — cross-platform VoIP and messaging service
Viber is a cross-platform voice, video and messaging app that uses phone numbers for accounts, supports calls, chats, stickers and optional encrypted 'secret' conversations.
Overview
Viber is a cross-platform application for voice calls, video calls and instant messaging that links accounts to a user's phone number. It allows people to communicate one-to-one and in groups using text, voice, images, video and a wide selection of stickers. The service routes calls and messages over the internet so users can communicate across countries without standard carrier SMS or voice charges when both parties use the app.
Core features
Basic features include free voice and video calls to other Viber users, real-time text and multimedia messaging, group chats, and a large sticker and emoji ecosystem. Viber also offers a paid service, Viber Out, that lets users call landlines and mobile numbers that do not have the app installed. The app works over mobile data networks and Wi‑Fi and adapts call quality to available bandwidth.
Platforms and account model
Viber runs on major mobile and desktop platforms and synchronizes conversations between a phone and linked computers. Accounts are tied to a verified phone number rather than a username, which simplifies contact discovery but requires access to that number for account setup. Desktop clients are available for Windows, macOS and Linux while mobile apps exist for iOS and Android; legacy support for some older mobile platforms has been phased out over time.
Privacy and security
Viber has added progressively stronger security features, including end‑to‑end encryption for one‑to‑one and group conversations across supported platforms. The app also introduced optional "secret chats" where messages can be set to self‑destruct after a chosen interval and screenshots may be restricted. As with any communication app, users should review settings and keep software updated to maintain privacy.
History and adoption
Viber was developed in the early 2010s and later became part of a larger technology group following acquisition. It achieved rapid global growth and reported hundreds of millions of registered users by the late 2010s. Over time the product has added features such as public accounts, bots, communities and expanded multimedia capabilities to remain competitive with other messaging platforms.
Uses, limitations and notable facts
Viber is commonly used for international personal calls, group conversations and business messaging for audiences that prefer phone‑number identity. Limitations include reliance on internet connectivity, occasional platform compatibility differences, and the need to trust the provider for metadata handling. Organisations often compare Viber with other services on factors like encryption, features, and market penetration when choosing a messaging solution.
Related resources
Questions and answers
Q: What is Viber?
A: Viber is an application that allows users to make free phone calls and send free text messages to other users who have the application installed.
Q: Which operating systems does Viber work with?
A: Viber works with iOS, Windows Phone, and Android OS.
Q: Can Viber be used on both cellular networks and Wi-Fi networks?
A: Yes, Viber works on both 3G and Wi-Fi networks.
Q: Is there a version of Viber available for BlackBerry devices?
A: As of the publication of the text, a version of Viber for BlackBerry devices was planned, but it is unclear if it has been released.
Q: How many registered users does Viber have worldwide, as of March 2017?
A: Viber had 800 million registered users worldwide as of March 2017.
Q: What is the "secret chats" feature that Viber introduced in 2017?
A: The "secret chats" feature is an option for users to start conversations that self-destruct after a certain time limit.
Q: Can Viber be used to make international calls?
A: Yes, Viber can be used to make international calls to other Viber users for free. However, there may be charges for calls placed to non-Viber users.
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Author
AlegsaOnline.com Viber — cross-platform VoIP and messaging service Leandro Alegsa
URL: https://en.alegsaonline.com/art/104861