10 Best Wi-Fi Texting Apps for iOS, Android & PC

A Wi-Fi texting app is a mobile or desktop application that allows users to send and receive text messages using a Wi-Fi or internet connection, instead of relying on traditional cellular networks.

Wi-Fi texting apps generally fall into two main categories:

1. Internet-based messaging apps: These apps let you communicate with other users who also have the same app for free. They use Wi-Fi to send messages, photos, videos, and even make voice or video calls, without needing a phone signal.
   
   Example: WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, Messenger, and WeChat.
2. Apps that use virtual phone numbers: These apps give you a separate second phone number that you can use to send texts and make calls over Wi-Fi. This is useful for getting a dedicated number for personal, work, or international use without needing a new SIM card.
   
   Unlike internet-based messaging apps, the receiver doesn’t need to use the same app for the calls to go through. However, these apps are not always free and will charge for texts based on the plan you’ve purchased.
   
   Example: Calilio, TextNow, Nextiva, and TextPlus.

The best Wi-Fi texting apps include WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber, Messenger, WeChat, Signal, Calilio, RingCentral, TextNow, and TextPlus.

1. WhatsApp

WhatsApp is one of the most widely used free Wi-Fi texting apps in the world. With over 2 billion users across more than 180 countries, it offers a simple, fast, and secure way to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues, no matter where they are.
WhatsApp lets you send free text messages, make voice and video calls, and share photos, videos, documents, and voice notes using Wi-Fi or mobile data. You don’t need a username or password, just your phone number to start messaging instantly.

Key Features:

• End-to-end encryption for privacy and security.
• Group chats and media sharing across devices.
• Status updates that disappear after 24 hours.
• Continue chats, reply to messages, take calls, and send voice notes from your smartwatch.

Device Availability: Android, iOS, Windows and macOS.

2. Telegram

Telegram is one of the leading Wi-Fi texting apps, known for its speed, security, and versatility. With over 1 billion active users, Telegram has become a top choice for people and communities who want reliable, feature-rich communication that syncs seamlessly across all their devices.Telegram lets you send messages, photos, videos, and files of any size over Wi-Fi or data, without taking up space on your device. Moreover, you can start typing a message on your phone and finish it on your laptop; everything stays synced automatically.

Key Features:

• Cloud storage for unlimited messages and media.
• Advanced security and Secret Chats with end-to-end encryption.
• Group chats for up to 200,000 members.
• File sharing up to 2 GB each (any format).
• Animated stickers, GIFs, photo and video editing tools, and fully customizable app themes.

Device Availability: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux.

3. Viber

Viber is our next pick for the best Wi-Fi texting app. It lets you send texts, images, videos, and files to individual users or up to 250 participants in a group chat. Moreover, with Viber, you can create channels and communities with unlimited participants. Members can text other members through channels or the community while keeping their phone numbers confidential.Viber also provides a paid VoIP service called Viber Out, which allows you to call non-Viber users. The Viber Out subscription lets you make calls in 60 countries, even if the person does not use Viber.

Key Features:

• End-to-end encryption for secure chats and calls.
• Disappearing messages with adjustable timers.
• AI bots, communities, and interactive channels.
• Over 55,000 stickers and creative lenses to personalize chats.
• Notes and reminders to organize messages and tasks.

Device Availability: iOS, Android, macOS, and Linux platforms.

4. Messenger

Messenger is one of the most widely used free Wi-Fi texting apps that makes it easy to stay connected with friends, family, and communities. You can simply connect through your Facebook account and begin chatting instantly over Wi-Fi or mobile data.Messenger lets you send text messages, photos, videos, stickers, GIFs, and files with smooth syncing across all your devices. You can also enjoy high-quality voice and video calls, create shared albums, and even send HD photos that preserve every detail.

Key Features:

• End-to-end encryption and disappearing messages.
• Edit or unsend messages easily.
• Share HD photos, large files, and create shared albums.
• Communities, creator channels, and interactive stories.
• Meta AI assistant for questions, creativity, and productivity.
• Custom chat themes, reactions, and animated stickers.

Device Availability: iOS, Android, macOS, and Linux platforms.

5. WeChat

WeChat is one of the most versatile Wi-Fi texting apps that goes beyond simple messaging. It lets you send text messages, photos, videos, voice notes, and even your real-time location. You can also make high-quality voice and video calls, or set up group chats with up to 500 members, making it ideal for both personal and community conversations.
Moreover, the WeChat Out feature enables low-cost international calls to landlines and mobile numbers, making it a great solution for global communication.

Key Features:

• Share moments and short-lived status updates.
• Huge sticker gallery and custom sticker options.
• Real-time location sharing for easy meetups.
• Message translation and multilingual support.

Device Availability: iOS, Android, Windows and macOS.

6. Signal

Signal is a trusted messaging app that lets you communicate freely over Wi-Fi or mobile data without relying on SMS plans. It allows users to send messages and share media with complete privacy. Every chat, call, and file transfer is protected through strong end-to-end encryption, keeping your personal conversations safe from unwanted access.
Signal does not track users, display ads, or collect personal data. You can also create group chats, share media, send voice notes, or host video calls with up to 50 participants, all while maintaining the same high level of security and privacy.

Key Features:

• Create and manage group chats with up to 1,000 members, with admin tools to control posts and manage participants.
• Share image, text, and video Stories that vanish after 24 hours, with customizable privacy settings.
• Add personality to your chats with encrypted sticker packs, or create and share your own.

Device Availability:  Android, iOS, and also has desktop versions for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

1. Calilio

Calilio is a modern cloud-based communication platform that works entirely over the internet, making it one of the best Wi-Fi texting apps for both individuals and businesses. It offers a virtual number that lets you send and receive SMS and MMS messages using only a Wi-Fi or data connection.
Through its intuitive dashboard, users can manage one-on-one or bulk text messaging, making it perfect for marketing campaigns, alerts, or updates. Moreover, it offers advanced features such as AI-powered call transcription, voicemail, call forwarding, sentiment analysis, and live call monitoring.

Key Features:

• Send and receive Bulk SMS to reach multiple contacts at once, perfect for promotions, alerts, or announcements.
• Use Internal Messaging to chat instantly with your team members for faster and more organized communication.
• Save time with Canned Responses and reply quickly using pre-written, customizable text templates.
• Send messages directly from your contacts or call logs for smoother follow-ups.
• Maintain a professional image with a Custom Caller ID that displays your business or virtual number when sending messages.

Device Availability: iOS, Android and as a web/desktop app.

2. RingCentral

RingCentral is a comprehensive communication app that allows you to manage all your calls, messages, and meetings over the internet. As a Wi-Fi texting app, it lets you send and receive SMS and MMS messages using only a Wi-Fi or mobile data connection. The app provides a virtual phone number, giving you a second line that can be used for business or personal communication.Beyond texting, RingCentral offers team messaging, digital faxing, and AI-powered tools that enhance productivity. Its built-in AI Assistant can correct typos in messages and even translate texts instantly.

Key Features:

• Get a dedicated business or secondary phone number for calling and texting from anywhere.
• Quickly find any message or conversation using keyword search across your chat history.
• Block unwanted numbers and filter spam messages with built-in blacklist options.
• Get push and email alerts for new messages, voicemails, missed calls, and upcoming meetings.
• Send and receive messages up to 1,000 characters.

Device Availability: Mobile apps for iOS and Android, as well as desktop applications for Windows and macOS.

3. TextNow

TextNow is a free Wi-Fi calling and texting app that lets you stay connected without paying for a traditional phone plan. It gives users a free local phone number for unlimited calls and texts over Wi-Fi. With no phone bills, contracts, or hidden fees, TextNow makes communication simple and affordable for everyone.
The Free Flex Plan allows users to access essential apps like email, maps, rideshare, and banking without a paid data plan. With features like voicemail transcription, caller ID, and the ability to text and call from multiple devices, TextNow provides a reliable and affordable way to stay connected.

Key Features:

• Free unlimited texting to any number in the U.S. and Canada.
• Send and receive messages from your phone, tablet, or computer via the TextNow app or website.
• Customizable text tones and vibrations for personalized alerts.
• Quick Reply feature for fast responses directly from notifications.
• Passcode protection for safe and private texting.
• Home screen widget for instant text access.

Device Availability: iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS.

4. TextPlus

TextPlus is a mobile application that provides users with a second phone number for texting and calling. It is designed to work over Wi-Fi or data, making it a flexible option for communication without needing a traditional mobile plan.
With TextPlus, you can send unlimited SMS and MMS messages. You can even choose your own U.S. area code to get a second phone number, which is perfect for work, travel, or keeping your personal and business life separate.

Key Features:

• Choose your own number and select from any U.S. area code for free.
• Send unlimited SMS and MMS messages to any U.S. or Canadian number.
• Sync call and message history across smartphones, tablets, and computers.
• Quick Reply feature for fast responses directly from notifications.
• Create and receive group chats, even with friends who don’t have the app.
• Send and receive pictures, GIFs, and other media files easily.

Device Availability: iOS and Android devices.

When choosing the best Wi-Fi texting app, look for one that works seamlessly across devices, offers a user-friendly interface, supports international messaging, and ensures strong security and privacy. Additionally, consider rich messaging features, pricing options, and user reviews to find an app that meets your communication needs.

1. Versatility and Device Compatibility: Choose an app that allows you to send and receive messages across various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktops. This ensures seamless communication whether you're at home or on the go.
2. User Interface: Choose an app with a simple and attractive layout that’s easy to navigate. A well-designed interface improves the overall chatting experience and makes features easy to access.
3. International Messaging: If you need to connect with people in other countries, select an app that supports free or low-cost international texting over Wi-Fi. This helps you stay in touch globally without worrying about roaming or carrier fees.
4. Security and Privacy Features: Opt for apps that prioritize user privacy and data security. Features such as end-to-end encryption, anonymous user IDs, and secure authentication methods are crucial.
5. Rich Messaging Capabilities: A Wi-Fi texting app should support a variety of message types, including SMS, MMS, group chats, voice messages, and multimedia sharing. Additionally, features like message scheduling, read receipts, and message reactions can enhance the messaging experience.
6. Pricing: Wi-Fi texting apps vary in cost. Free versions work well for basic messaging, while paid plans add premium features like unlimited video calls or an ad-free experience. Consider what you need most and whether those extras are worth paying for.
7. User Feedback: Reading user reviews is a smart way to gauge an app’s performance. Feedback often highlights real-world experiences with reliability, speed, and update frequency.

Wi-Fi texting apps have transformed how we communicate, making it easier, cheaper, and more flexible to stay connected across devices and locations. Whether you’re traveling internationally, managing multiple chats, or simply avoiding traditional SMS fees, these apps provide a dependable way to stay in touch.

While internet-based messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram are ideal for chatting with other users online for free, they’re limited when it comes to reaching real phone numbers. That’s where Calilio stands out. It’s a complete Wi-Fi phone system that gives you a dedicated virtual number, enabling you to call and text anyone, no matter what device or carrier they use.

Calilio also offers advanced features like call forwarding, voicemail, team collaboration tools, and AI-powered call management, all accessible across mobile, desktop, and web platforms. With its intuitive interface, secure communication, and flexible pricing, Calilio is a modern alternative to traditional phone services.