The 19 best apps for communicating overseas on mobile

If you're looking for the best apps for communicating overseas on mobile, look no further. From Skype and WhatsApp Business to LINE, we've got you covered.

App Logo Available On Reviews Downloads Features
1. Skype Skype Icon Android, iOS 4.7/5 2B+ Free video calls with up to 100 people, Send and receive free text messages
2. WhatsApp Business WhatsApp Business Icon Android, iOS 4.8/5 1B+ Business Profile, Away Messages, Greeting Message
3. LINE LINE Icon Android, iOS 4/5 985M+ Free voice and video calls, Wide variety of stickers
4. WeChat WeChat Icon Android, iOS 4.1/5 403M+ Cross-platform messaging, WeChat Pay, Moments
5. Signal Private Messenger Signal Private Messenger Icon Android, iOS 4.7/5 142M+ End-to-end encryption, No phone number required, Open source
6. TextNow TextNow Icon Android, iOS 4.8/5 105M+ Free talk & text nationwide, No phone bill, Free essential data
7. Google Chat Google Chat Icon Android, iOS 4.5/5 48M+ Cross-platform messaging, Integrated document editing
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1. Skype

Skype Icon

Free video calls, Text messages, ChatGPT integration


Cost: Skype Free (Free), Skype Number Subscription (Varies by location)

Stay connected with loved ones overseas effortlessly with Skype, a reliable and feature-rich communication app. Despite occasional technical hiccups, Skype remains a popular choice for international communication, offering clear voice and video calls, instant messaging, and file sharing.

While Skype may not be perfect, its strengths outweigh its drawbacks. The recent integration with Bing AI provides enhanced search capabilities, adding convenience to your conversations. Despite some minor inconveniences, such as occasional message truncation or push notification delays, Skype remains a valuable tool for seamless communication across borders.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 1 Billion
Features Voice and video calls, instant messaging, file sharing, screen sharing, group calls, and international calling with low rates.
Pros User-friendly, reliable calls, widely compatible.
Cons Can be resource-intensive, privacy concerns with Microsoft ownership, occasional call quality issues.
Skype - Free video calls with up to 100 people, Send and receive free text messages
  • Tags:
  • Free video and audio calls
  • Real-time messaging and file sharing
  • Powered by advanced AI technology

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2. WhatsApp Business

WhatsApp Business Icon

Cross-platform messaging, Group video and voice calls, End-to-end encryption


Cost: WhatsApp Business (Free)

Communicate effortlessly across borders with WhatsApp Business, the go-to app for connecting with customers overseas. With its simple and user-friendly interface, businesses can easily manage conversations, respond to inquiries, and build strong relationships with their international clientele. This app streamlines communication, allowing you to stay connected with customers around the globe.

Despite its popularity, WhatsApp Business has room for improvement. Users have requested features such as the ability to temporarily charge for items outside of the catalog and add notes to payment requests for better clarity. Additionally, some users have experienced issues with archived chats resurfacing and automatic image saving. Despite these minor setbacks, WhatsApp Business remains an indispensable tool for businesses looking to expand their reach and connect with customers worldwide.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 1 billion
Features Provides business profile creation, automated messages, product/service catalogs, message labeling, and performance analytics.
Pros Free, easy to use, familiar interface, good for customer engagement.
Cons Limited automation features compared to competitors, relies heavily on user's personal phone number and contacts.
WhatsApp Business - Business Profile, Away Messages, Greeting Message
  • Tags:
  • Business Profiles
  • Away and Greeting Messages
  • Quick Replies

✨ Read more: app for brainstorming

3. LINE

LINE Icon

Free voice and video calls, Wide variety of stickers, Cross-platform availability


Cost: LINE Free Calls & Messages (Free), LINE Stickers (Varies)

LINE is a popular instant messaging app that allows users to stay connected with friends and family overseas. One of its key advantages is the ability to make free voice and video calls, send messages, and share photos and videos. LINE also offers a wide range of fun and expressive stickers that can be used to add personality to conversations.

Despite its many features, LINE has received some criticism from users regarding issues with data backup and occasional technical glitches. However, the app's overall functionality and user-friendly interface continue to make it a popular choice for those looking to communicate with loved ones abroad.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 1 Billion
Features Messaging, voice and video calls, group chats, stickers and themes, news feed, mobile payments, and more.
Pros Free, feature-rich, user-friendly, widely popular.
Cons Can be privacy-invasive, heavy battery consumption, occasional ads, primarily popular in Asia.
LINE - Free voice and video calls, Wide variety of stickers
  • Tags:
  • Free voice and video calls
  • Wide variety of stickers and emojis
  • Customizable Themes

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4. WeChat

WeChat Icon

Free voice and video calls, Real-time translation, Cross-platform messaging


Cost: WeChat (Free)

Craving a seamless communication experience overseas? WeChat, the app trusted by over a billion users globally, has you covered. With crystal-clear calls, instant messaging, and a user-friendly interface, staying connected with loved ones abroad has never been easier. Say goodbye to missed notifications and hello to the convenience of knowing when messages arrive, ensuring you stay up-to-date with every conversation.

Despite occasional hiccups with notifications and a storage-intensive app size, WeChat remains a top choice for overseas communication. Whether you're chatting with family, catching up with friends, or conducting business, WeChat's robust features and global reach make it the perfect solution for bridging distances. Embrace the power of WeChat and experience the joy of effortless communication, wherever you may roam.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 1 Billion
Features Messaging, social media, mobile payments, digital wallet, mini-programs, official accounts, and more.
Pros Versatile, user-friendly, widely popular, feature-rich.
Cons Privacy concerns, censorship issues in some regions, limited international appeal outside of Asia.
WeChat - Cross-platform messaging, WeChat Pay, Moments
  • Tags:
  • Messaging and calling
  • Social media and Moments
  • Mobile payments and more

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5. Signal Private Messenger

Signal Private Messenger Icon

End-to-end encryption, Free voice and video calls, Large group chats


Cost: Signal Private Messenger (Free)

Communicate overseas seamlessly and securely with Signal Private Messenger! This app is the go-to choice for those who value privacy and reliability. With its end-to-end encryption, you can rest assured that your messages are safe from prying eyes.

Signal Private Messenger is also incredibly user-friendly, making it a breeze to stay connected with friends and family abroad. The app's simple and intuitive interface allows you to quickly send messages, make calls, and share photos and videos. Plus, with its support for multiple languages, Signal is accessible to users from all over the world.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 100 million downloads
Features End-to-end encrypted messaging, voice and video calls, disappearing messages, group chats, file sharing, and screen sharing.
Pros Secure, private, open-source, and free to use.
Cons Requires a phone number to sign up, limited customization options, and can be slow in areas with poor internet connection.
Signal Private Messenger - End-to-end encryption, No phone number required, Open source
  • Tags:
  • End-to-end encryption
  • Free and Open Source
  • No ads or trackers

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6. TextNow

TextNow Icon

Free international calling, Unlimited texting, Wi-Fi calling and texting


Cost: TextNow Free (Free), TextNow Premium ($8.99/month)

TextNow is a lifesaver for those who need to communicate overseas without breaking the bank. With its free unlimited calls and texts, you can stay connected with loved ones abroad without worrying about expensive roaming charges. Plus, with its affordable data plans, you can even use TextNow for video calls and web browsing.

Whether you're a frequent traveler, an expat, or just someone who wants to save money on their phone bill, TextNow is the perfect solution. It's easy to use, reliable, and affordable, making it the best choice for communicating overseas.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 100 Million
Features Provides free calling and texting over WiFi, with options for a free local phone number and affordable data plans.
Pros Free calling, texting, and voicemail. Affordable data plans.
Cons Call quality can be inconsistent. Ads can be intrusive. Requires WiFi or data connection.
TextNow - Free talk & text nationwide, No phone bill, Free essential data
  • Tags:
  • Free phone service
  • Free talk and text
  • Free essential data

7. Google Chat

Google Chat Icon

Secure group collaboration, Simplified content sharing, Seamless integration


Cost: Google Chat (Free) (Free), Google Workspace Business Starter (Starting at $6 per user per month)

Communicating overseas can be a hassle, especially with the different time zones and language barriers. But with Google Chat, you can easily stay connected with friends and family no matter where they are in the world. The app is available on both iOS and Android devices, so you can use it on your smartphone or tablet. It's also free to download and use, so you don't have to worry about any hidden costs.

One of the best things about Google Chat is that it's very easy to use. The interface is simple and straightforward, so you can quickly get started sending messages, making calls, and sharing files. The app also has a number of features that make it great for communicating overseas, such as the ability to translate messages in real time and the option to send messages without an internet connection.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 10,000,000+
Features Offers direct messaging, group chat rooms, file sharing, video conferencing, and integration with other Google Workspace apps.
Pros Seamless Google integration, user-friendly interface, and collaborative features.
Cons Limited customization options, occasional notification issues, and features can be less robust than competitors.
Google Chat - Cross-platform messaging, Integrated document editing
  • Tags:
  • Secure group collaboration
  • Integrated content creation
  • Powerful search functionality

8. Google Voice

Google Voice Icon

Free international calling, Cheap international texting, Seamless device integration


Cost: Google Voice (Free)

Communicating overseas can be a hassle, but Google Voice makes it a breeze. With this app, you can have a customizable phone number in the cloud to connect with people worldwide. Enjoy crystal-clear calls, convenient messaging, and a user-friendly interface that makes staying in touch with loved ones abroad effortless.

Google Voice is the perfect solution for those who want to stay connected overseas without breaking the bank. Its robust features allow you to easily search through old messages, share pictures, and react to texts. Despite a few minor limitations in video sharing and text reactions, the app still provides a reliable and affordable way to communicate with people around the globe.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 100 Million
Features Provides a free US phone number for calling, texting, and voicemail, with features like call forwarding, spam blocking, and voicemail transcription.
Pros Free US phone number, robust features, integrates with other Google services.
Cons Can be unreliable at times, limited international calling options, requires a Google account.
Google Voice - Spam filtering, Cross-device syncing, Searchable history
  • Tags:
  • Spam Filtering
  • Cross-Device Sync
  • Call forwarding

9. HelloTalk

HelloTalk Icon

Native speaker chats, Translation and captions, Live language events


Cost: Free (Free), HelloTalk VIP ($6.99/month)

HelloTalk is a mobile app designed for overseas communication, offering users the opportunity to connect with native speakers from around the world. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive language learning features, HelloTalk makes it easy to practice speaking, writing, and listening skills with native speakers in real-time conversations.

Despite lacking certain features like a word-for-word dictionary lookup or video posting, HelloTalk compensates with its robust correction function, which allows users to receive feedback on their language usage. This feature has aided many users in enhancing their language proficiency, providing them with valuable insights from native speakers. Additionally, the app's active community and various communication options, including text and audio messaging, make it an engaging and effective tool for language learning and cross-cultural exchange.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 50 Million
Features Language exchange platform connecting learners with native speakers for chat, voice/video calls, AI grammar correction, language tools, and cultural exchange opportunities.
Pros Free, user-friendly, diverse community, effective learning tools.
Cons Occasional spam accounts, limited free features, potential for superficial interactions, requires self-motivation.
HelloTalk - Native speaker practice, Translation and captions, Live language events
  • Tags:
  • Language exchange
  • Native speakers
  • Free language learning

10. Yubo

Yubo Icon

Swipe to make friends, Stream and chat live, Find your tribe


Cost: Yubo (Free), Yubo Power Pack ($9.99)

Yubo is an app designed for international communication, allowing users to connect with individuals from all over the world. Despite its potential, users have expressed concerns regarding certain aspects of the app that could hinder its effectiveness. Some users have encountered profiles with minimal information, making it challenging to find genuine connections. Additionally, the emphasis on dating rather than friendship may not align with the app's intended purpose.

Despite these drawbacks, Yubo offers several positive features. Users appreciate the app's user-friendly interface and the ability to swipe through profiles quickly. However, the limited rewards system and the difficulty in swiping through profiles without being prompted to make a decision have been cited as areas for improvement. The paid subscription model, which restricts communication to premium users, has also been met with criticism.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 100 million
Features Live social discovery app for making friends through live streaming, chat, and shared interests.
Pros Easy to use, fosters genuine connections, large user base.
Cons Potential for inappropriate content, risk of cyberbullying, privacy concerns for young users.
Yubo - Swipe to make new friends, Stream and chat live, Find your tribe
  • Tags:
  • Swipe to make friends
  • Stream and chat now
  • Find your tribe

11. MEEFF

MEEFF Icon

Blind Match, Language Translation, Global Group Chat


Cost: MEEFF - Make Global Friends (Free), MEEFF Premium (Varies with Subscription Plan)

Calling all globetrotters and language enthusiasts! MEEFF is your indispensable companion for seamless communication overseas. Its robust platform connects you with a vast global community, making it a breeze to practice new languages, forge meaningful connections, and embrace different cultures.

Despite its impressive features, MEEFF's free version comes with a few caveats. The occasional appearance of advertisements may interrupt your conversations, and persistent bugs and crashes can sometimes hinder your progress. However, its vibrant user base and the opportunity to connect with fascinating individuals from around the world make MEEFF an invaluable tool for international communication.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 10 Million Downloads
Features Connect with people worldwide through text and video chat, language exchange, and cultural exploration.
Pros Easy to use, great for meeting new people globally.
Cons Potential for fake profiles, occasional ads, and some features require payment.
MEEFF - Blind Match, Group chat with translation, Korean friends for foreigners
  • Tags:
  • Blind Match
  • Language translation
  • Real-time Conversations

12. Yolla

Yolla Icon

Cheap International Calls, Premium Quality Calls, Easy to Use Interface


Cost: Free trial (Free), Yolla Premium ($9.99 per month)

Calling overseas can be a costly hassle, but Yolla is here to change that. With its incredibly low rates and easy-to-use interface, Yolla makes international communication a breeze. Downloading and setting up the app takes only minutes, and you can start making calls right away. You don't need to commit to a subscription or pay any hidden fees—simply purchase the amount of credit you need based on your calling needs.

Yolla's dedication to affordability and user experience is evident in its features and pricing. The app offers crystal-clear call quality, ensuring seamless communication with your overseas contacts. Despite its many advantages, Yolla respects your privacy by not requiring access to your contact list. With Yolla, you can confidently connect with loved ones abroad without worrying about excessive costs or security concerns.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 10 million downloads
Features Offers international calling, texting, and virtual phone numbers with competitive rates and a user-friendly interface.
Pros Affordable, clear calls, easy to use, feature-rich
Cons Requires internet connection, occasional call quality issues, limited customer support options
Yolla - Cheap international calls, Premium quality calls, Free credits for inviting friends
  • Tags:
  • Cheap International Calls
  • Premium Quality Calls
  • Free Credits for Inviting Friends

13. Slowly

Slowly Icon

Letter delivery delay simulation, Pen pal matching, Language learning


Cost: Free (Free), Slowly Premium ($9.99 per month)

Slowly is a refreshing mobile app that fosters meaningful connections with people around the world. Unlike shallow chat apps, Slowly prioritizes depth and authentic communication, allowing users to forge lasting friendships based on shared interests and values. With its intuitive interface and customizable settings, Slowly empowers users to tailor their experience and connect with like-minded individuals who truly resonate with them.

Despite the initial wait for letters to send and receive, Slowly's extended communication timeframe enhances the excitement of the exchange. Users eagerly anticipate the arrival of letters from across oceans, savoring the anticipation and the joy of discovering new perspectives. Slowing down the pace of communication allows for thoughtful replies and genuine connections that transcend geographical boundaries. Moreover, Slowly's design encourages users to focus on the art of writing and the depth of conversation, rather than relying solely on instant gratification or superficial interactions.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 5 million downloads
Features Asynchronous letter writing, connection with people worldwide based on shared interests, digital stamp collection, and various profile customization options.
Pros Meaningful connections, thoughtful communication, and cultural exchange.
Cons Slow pace, potential for infrequent replies, and limited interaction beyond letter writing.
Slowly - Snail mail for the digital age, Anonymity by default
  • Tags:
  • Slow-paced communication
  • Meaningful conversations
  • Global pen pals

14. Unbordered Foreign Friend Chat

Unbordered Foreign Friend Chat Icon

Instant Translations, Audio Messaging, Public Chat Rooms


Cost: Free (Free), Unbordered Premium ($9.99/month)

Unbordered Foreign Friend Chat is a mobile app that connects you with people from all over the world. It’s a great way to make new friends, learn about different cultures, and practice your foreign language skills. The app is easy to use and has a large community of users, so you’re sure to find someone to talk to.

Despite some minor issues with the app, such as occasional bugs and audio problems, users have had a positive experience with Unbordered Foreign Friend Chat. Many users appreciate the ability to choose who they want to talk to and the opportunity to learn about different cultures. The app is also constantly being updated, so the developers are committed to fixing any issues that arise.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 4 Million
Features Connect with people worldwide through text and video chat, participate in diverse community forums, and utilize integrated translation tools.
Pros Easy to use, connects you with people globally, facilitates language learning.
Cons Can encounter fake profiles, occasional presence of inappropriate content, and requires internet connection.
Unbordered Foreign Friend Chat - Instant Translations, Audio Messaging, Public Chat Rooms
  • Tags:
  • Instant translations
  • Audio Messaging
  • Public Chat Rooms

15. Interpals

Interpals Icon

Language exchange, Meet local travelers, Worldwide community


Cost: Free (Free), Premium (Varies by subscription plan)

Interpals, a well-established app for connecting with people across borders, offers a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features. Despite some minor glitches, such as occasional difficulties uploading images and filtering search results, it provides a seamless experience for language learners, pen pals, and those seeking new friendships abroad.

Users appreciate the ability to send voice messages, a feature that enhances communication and fosters a more personal connection. However, it's important to note that voice messages must be under a minute long to ensure successful delivery. Despite these minor setbacks, Interpals remains a popular choice for those seeking meaningful connections and cultural exchange, with the added benefit of allowing users to block unwanted contacts or entire regions for a more comfortable online environment.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 1 Million Downloads
Features Connect with people globally through messaging, language exchange, forum discussions, and travel planning.
Pros Free, diverse community, great for language learning and cultural exchange.
Cons Can be difficult to find genuine connections, potential for scams or catfishing.
Interpals - Language exchange, Meet new people, Practice languages
  • Tags:
  • Language exchange
  • Culture exchange
  • Meet new people

16. Bumpy

Bumpy Icon

International soulmate search, 90% verified users, Automatic language translation


Cost: Bumpy - Free (Free), Bumpy Boost ($9.99 per month)

Bumpy is the only free overseas communication app that doesn't fake matches or "discount" your account. Conversations are easy with others because you don't have to pay for them, and you can choose what you are looking for instead of it being an upgrade package.

Bumpy is a great app for meeting real people and making friends around the world. It's easy to use and doesn't require location. You can filter by intention and bio length to find people who share your interests. The built-in translator makes it easy to communicate with people from all over the world.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 1 million
Features Live video chat, instant messaging, gender and location filters, friend requests, virtual gifts, and user verification.
Pros Easy to use, connects with people globally, offers various communication methods.
Cons Can be superficial, potential for inappropriate content, requires in-app purchases for full functionality.
Bumpy - International dating, 90% verified users, Automatic translations
  • Tags:
  • International Dating
  • Verified Profiles
  • Automatic Translation

17. K

K Icon

Language exchange, Global friends, Country change


Cost: K Free (Free), K Premium ($9.99/month)

K, a revolutionary app, bridges the gap between cultures, connecting you with global friends who share your passion for Korean entertainment, music, and lifestyle. Its user-friendly interface and intuitive navigation make it a joy to use. Whether you're seeking a virtual pen pal or an enriching cultural exchange, K empowers you to expand your horizons and forge meaningful connections.

With K, you'll never feel alone again. Immerse yourself in a thriving community where you can chat with international friends at your leisure. The app's unique features cater to your interests, allowing you to meet like-minded individuals from all walks of life. While premium perks are available, you can still enjoy the app's core functionality without breaking the bank. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of cultures with K, and let the world become your global playground.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 1 million downloads
Features Offers real-time chat translation, voice and video calls, language learning games, and a community forum for language learners.
Pros Easy to use, connects with people globally, excellent for language practice.
Cons Can be difficult to find consistent conversation partners, occasional technical issues, and some features require a paid subscription.
K - Change country, Dark skin mode, Group chat
  • Tags:
  • Language exchange
  • Korean culture
  • Make Korean friends

18. InterNations

InterNations Icon

Global expat community, In-app event planning, Local and international networking


Cost: Basic (Free), Premium (Varies by location and membership duration)

For those seeking a global connection, InterNations presents an exceptional platform to connect with expats and global minds. Navigate the world with ease, accessing a wealth of features designed to enhance your overseas experience. Immerse yourself in a vibrant community, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and discover hidden gems.

Despite its utility, InterNations is not without its drawbacks. The app's premium features come at a cost, requiring careful consideration before committing. Additionally, its user interface could benefit from improvements, with users experiencing occasional navigation challenges and slow loading times. Despite these minor setbacks, InterNations remains a valuable tool for forging connections and enriching your journey abroad.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 1 million downloads
Features Connect with other expats, attend events, access city guides, find housing, and get expat-relevant information.
Pros Great for networking, finding events, and getting settled in a new city.
Cons Can be difficult to find relevant information, some features require a paid membership, and occasional user interface issues.
InterNations - Connect with expats, Attend local events, Share experiences
  • Tags:
  • Global networking
  • Expat community
  • Event Discovery

19. Global Dates International Fun

Global Dates International Fun Icon

Global dating community, Live chat and video, Serious relationships


Cost: Global Dates Week ($9.99), Global Dates Month ($29.99)

Embark on a global adventure with Global Dates International Fun, the ultimate app for connecting with singles worldwide. Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features make it a breeze to navigate, fostering meaningful connections across borders. Experience the thrill of matching with individuals who share your passions and aspirations, bridging cultural divides with each swipe.

Global Dates International Fun empowers you to transcend geographical boundaries. With its vast user base, you'll discover a diverse pool of potential matches from every corner of the globe. Whether you seek friendship, romance, or simply cultural exchange, this app provides a safe and welcoming space to forge connections that defy distance. Its intuitive design and unlimited free features ensure that you can explore the world of international dating without limitations.

Download:

Android iOS

Application information:

Downloads Over 100,000 downloads
Features Connect with singles worldwide through chat, video calls, virtual gifts, and translation features for seamless communication.
Pros Easy to use interface, wide range of communication features, connects users globally.
Cons Limited free features, potential for fake profiles, requires in-app purchases for full functionality.
Global Dates International Fun - Meet people worldwide, Live video and chat, Serious relationship goal
  • Tags:
  • Global Dating App
  • Meet Singles Worldwide
  • International Chat & Video