Group text apps are a great way for teams to keep in contact. We review the 16 best group text apps for business in 2024.
It can be difficult for deskless workers to keep in contact with each other. They need to stay updated on important announcements, schedule changes, and projects, all while out in the field. Fortunately, group text apps are an easy solution for these needs.
You can use a group text app to send messages, files, reports, and more to your entire team at once. You can also create custom groups based on job title, project, or location to make sure the right people always get the information they need to complete their tasks.
Group text apps are mobile-friendly, can be accessed from anywhere, and don’t require a laptop or desktop computer to use. Most people have used group text apps in their personal lives, so they don’t have a steep learning curve either.
In this article, we review the 16 best group text apps for business in 2024 to help you choose which is right for you.
If you don’t have the time to read through our research, jump down to our quick comparison table.
Our Top Picks
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Best all-in-one group text app.
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Good for security features.
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Good for sharing large files.
Why trust us?
Our team of unbiased software reviewers follows strict editorial guidelines, and our methodology is clear and open to everyone.
See our complete methodology
57
Tools considered
40
Tools reviewed
15
Best tools
chosen
What to Look For in a Group Text App
Here are some key considerations when choosing a group text app for your business.
- Organizational features. Group text apps should be well-organized. You and your employees should be able to easily find group messages, and have the option to manage multiple group chats.
- Chat management features. Managers and administrators should have control over creating and managing group chats. This includes adding and removing members, and deleting shared content, like photos or files, as needed.
- Notifications. A group text app should have a notification feature so everyone on your team can know exactly when they receive a message. Notifications should be mutable so you can switch them off when you aren’t at work.
- Security features. End-to-end encryption, which prevents third parties from accessing your data, is a standard feature of most group text apps. It can help secure your internal business communication so only employees can see messages, files, photos, and other documents.
- User capacity. Some group text apps limit the number of members in a group, so make sure the app you choose accommodates the number of employees you have.
- Integrations. A good group text app should work with other business software tools and applications. Connecteam’s chat feature, for example, integrates with its scheduling tools, time clock app, and payroll software.
- Ease of use. A group chat app should be easy to use, with little to no training required.
The 15 Best Group Text Apps of 2024
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Connecteam — Best for: All-in-one group text app
Connecteam is an employee management platform with an advanced chat feature that lets you keep in touch with your staff from anywhere, at any time.
Connecteam’s Chat lets you send individual and group messages, audio notes, images, videos, files, and even locations. You can use Connecteam’s chat feature on any smartphone or through the web interface. This makes it ideal for non-desk teams who need an easy, effective way to stay connected.
There are several key features that make Connecteam the best app for group texting.
Create and customize chats with the Smart Groups feature
Setting up a group chat is quick and easy with Connecteam’s Smart Groups feature. You don’t need to manually add hundreds of members to a group. Instead, automatically create groups of employees based on their roles, department, or other criteria.
You can archive past conversations, mute busy chats, and pin important conversations. You can also name team chats. Our app displays message statuses, so you can always know who in a group has read your messages. This means you never lose track of a discussion.
Group members can make use of Connecteam’s chat reactions. Instead of typing out a full message, you can respond to a message quickly with an emoji, saving you time during busy days.
Managers can also use the app for one-way communication. For example, management can set up an organization-wide channel to share updates and information without receiving replies.
Chat controls keep work conversations professional
Connecteam’s chat allows managers to access all group chats and moderate conversations as they see fit. Administrators can also remove inappropriate content and control what features each group member has access to in the chat.
Enhanced security keeps your chats safe
Connecteam’s chat feature can improve information security in your organization. Only current employees can access the app. When an employee leaves your organization, they lose access to the app.
Our app also ensures conversations and media are secure. Messages can’t be saved or exported, and no chat data is automatically downloaded to users’ phones.
So much more than a group chat app
Connecteam offers far more than just a work chat. Connecteam’s all-in-one employee management software provides you with time management and scheduling software, tools to manage HR documents like onboarding forms and employee files, and lets you create forms and checklists for on-site inspections, safety checks, and more.
The most affordable group text app for business
Connecteam’s basic plan on the Communications Hub includes our chat feature, and starts at just $29 per month for up to 30 employees, plus $0.50 per month for each additional employee.
Two free versions also include our chat feature: the Small Business Plan, for businesses with up to 10 employees, and the limited plan, for organizations with fewer than 30 employees.
Connecteam also offers a free for life plan – Get Started Now!
Key Features
Smart Groups to automate group creation
Push notifications to ensure every message is seen
Chat reactions for an immersive experience
Manager and administrator controls in group chats
Only current employees can access chat
Seamlessly integrated into suite of Connecteam features
Pros
Intuitive design
Free plans available for up to 30 users
Offered as part of broader employee management solution
Available in over 10 languages
Cons
Needs internet or wifi access to work
Pricing
Free-for-life plan availablePremium plans start at $29/month for 30 users
14-day free trial, no credit card required
Start your free trial -
Whatsapp — Good for: Security features
WhatsApp is a free group text messaging service owned by Meta, often used as an alternative to SMS messaging. With WhatsApp, you can create groups to send texts, voice notes, files, photos, and videos.
WhatsApp has chat features that can be useful for business owners. You can set your status to let staff know when you’re online. Additionally, checkmarks beside sent messages indicate their status. For example, two blue checkmarks confirm that everyone in the group has seen the message.
WhatsApp’s security features include end-to-end encryption, two-step verification, and disappearing messages.
The standard WhatsApp platform is free, and businesses can use it for internal communication. WhatsApp also offers a specific Business app and platform, designed for direct communication with customers.
Key Features
- End-to-end encryption
- Send messages to numerous groups
- Checkmarks to confirm messages have been sent and read
- Status updates
Pros
- Minimal training required to use
- Free version suitable for most small businesses
Cons
- Standalone app, not part of broader HR software solution
- Free version allows for only 1,024 group members maximum
Pricing
Contact vendor for price Trial: No Free Plan: Yes
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Telegram — Good for: Sharing large files
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
- Windows
- Mac
Telegram is a free cloud-based messaging platform. You can use it to send group messages, videos, photos, and files to your staff.
You can organize Telegram using functions like mentions and hashtags. You can also sync and manage messages across multiple mobile and desktop devices. Admin access allows a specific person to manage group conversations, so a manager on your team can oversee team communication.
There’s no limit on the size of the media you share on Telegram. You can have up to 200,000 members in a group chat, and make voice and video calls. Telegram also offers features like secret chats and self-destructing messages.
Key Features
- Data encryption
- Self-destructing messages
- Syncs with multiple devices simultaneously
- No size limit on media sent via chat
Pros
- Free Plan
- Strong security features
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Users report receiving bot messages
Pricing
Starts at $4.99/month Trial: No Free Plan: Yes
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Viber — Good for: Stickers and GIFs
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
- Windows
- Mac
Viber is a free messaging app you can use on mobile devices or a desktop. You can send messages, photos, videos, and files in group chats.
Viber has an easy-to-use interface and intuitive chat features like a group search function. Viber’s security features include end-to-end encryption and contact verification, which allows you to confirm who you’re chatting with.
The app offers a range of stickers and GIFs, and users can also create their own. This can be a useful tool for businesses who are developing their culture. Viber’s additional features include the ability to buy credit to call international mobile and landline numbers.
Key Features
- Disappearing messages
- Delete and edit seen messages
- Voice and video calls
- Ability to transfer calls between devices
Pros
- Easy to install and use
- Free Plan
Cons
- Users report occasional connectivity issues
- Not specifically designed for business use
Pricing
Contact vendor for price Trial: No Free Plan: Yes
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Messenger — Good for: Notifications
Meta originally designed its free group text app Meta for communicating with family and friends, but it can also be used for business communication. Many also use Messenger as an alternative to other chat marketing tools.
Messenger’s group message features include GIFs and Stickers. Recipients can also use Reactions, such as a thumbs up, to respond to messages. You can also address messages to “@everyone” to send a notification to all group members at once.
Messages in group chats on Messenger are end-to-end encrypted. You can also send disappearing messages in vanish mode.
To download the Messenger app, you’ll need to set up a Facebook account, or log into an existing one. Once you’re logged into Messenger, you can deactivate your Facebook account if you wish to.
Key Features
- End-to-end encryption
- GIFs, Stickers, and Reactions
- @everyone functionality
- Rooms feature for group video chats
Pros
- Many users are familiar with Meta products
- Free
Cons
- Not specifically designed for business use
- Facebook account required to set up an account
Pricing
Free Trial: No Free Plan: Yes
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Signal — Good for: Strong privacy protections
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
Signal is an independent, non-profit messaging platform. Its privacy and security features include end-to-end encryption, meaning only you and your intended recipients can see the messages you send to each other.
Signal lets you set up private group chats of up to 1,000 members to send messages, voice notes, photos, videos, GIFs, and files to. You can also use the app to make group calls with your staff.
Mentions, group descriptions, and admin control help you manage your group chats. Admins can control who joins the group and who can send messages. They can also remove members and messages.
Signal makes it easy to invite other users into a group by sending them a link or QR code.
Key Features
- End-to-end encryption
- Admin control over group messages
- Create groups of up to 1,000 members
- Group voice and video calls for up to 8 people
Pros
- Free Plan
- Strong privacy protections
Cons
- Incompatible with some older operating systems
- Isn’t available for Android tablets
Pricing
Contact vendor for price Trial: No Free Plan: No
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Slack — Good for: Workflow tools
Specifically designed for businesses, Slack has workflow tools and chat features. Slack’s group chat allows you to send and receive messages in real time. You can also see which of your employees are online at any time.
You can set up channels for group chats based on team, employee location, projects, events, and more. You can also create channels to send messages to your entire staff.
Slack organizes group chats into threads, making channels clean and easy to read. Group chat features include mentions, the ability to edit and delete messages, and quick responses. You can also format messages with bullet points, bold text, emojis, and links.
Slack offers a free version including 10 integrations and 90-day access to message history. For larger businesses, there’s also an enterprise-level subscription for up to 500,000 users.
Key Features
- Status updates
- End-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication
- Channels to organize group chats
- Integrates with over 2,200 apps
Pros
- 24/7 support available for paid plans
- Stylish interface
Cons
- Free version stores messages and files for only 90 days
- Can take time to learn to use
Pricing
Starts at $8.25/user/month Trial: Yes Free Plan: Yes
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Discord — Good for: Sending audio and video files
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
- Windows
- Mac
Discord is a free group text messaging service primarily designed for gaming, social, and community groups. The app connects private and public communities so they can exchange instant messages.
On Discord, group chats are called servers. It’s easy to start a server by adding users to an existing conversation using their email address, phone number, or username. Discord lets you assign server members different roles, such as admin or moderator.
Discord lets you send video and audio files to other users in a group chat. You can also create channels within a server to discuss smaller, related topics.
Discord offers a free plan as well as a premium subscription called Nitro. Nitro gives you access to extra features like longer messages and larger file-sharing options.
Key Features
- Group messaging
- Group management
- Different subscription tiers
- Send audio and video
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Group text app: Free version available
Cons
- Not designed specifically for business use
- Users report spam on public servers
Pricing
Starts at $9.99/user/month Trial: No Free Plan: No
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Mattermost — Good for: Technical teams
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
- Windows
- Mac
Mattermost is designed to support messaging, workflow, and project management for technical teams. Unlike other group text apps, Mattermost is an open-source platform. This means you can use integrations developed by community contributors, or design your own.
You can use Mattermost to send group messages, files, images, and links. Mattermost’s chat platform also includes features like file and code-snippet sharing.
Mattermost offers three subscription tiers: free, professional, and enterprise, for large businesses. You can also choose between self-hosted or cloud-based options to host your Mattermost workspace.
Key Features
- Group chats and calls
- Open source integrations
- Unlimited file storage
- Multi-factor authentication
Pros
- Fast performance
- Unlimited number of teams and users can use free version
Cons
- More technical functionality can create a steep learning curve
- Paid version’s per-user pricing model can become expensive
Pricing
Starts at $10/user/month Trial: Yes Free Plan: Yes
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Chatwork — Good for: Global teams
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
- Windows
- Mac
Chatwork is a group chat app designed for global teams, intended to replace bulky email inboxes.
You can create group chats by project or team, and categorize chats according to priority. Easily search and find conversations using keywords, and store important files and notes within your chats. You can also add users to group chats, review and categorize members, and set group names.
Chatwork also offers contact management, file sharing, and task management features. In terms of security features, the group text app includes 256-bit encryption and ISO 27001 certification to protect your messages. This confirms that Chatwork uses international best practices when managing information.
Chatwork has a free plan for up to 100 users. Its business plan starts at $5 per user per month, and you can add an unlimited amount of users.
Key Features
- Keyword search feature
- Flag unread messages to reply later
- Group video call
- 24-hour security monitoring to detect any issues
Pros
- Free plan includes unlimited number of group chats
- Available in English, Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese
Cons
- Paid version’s per-user pricing model can become expensive
- Limited user management features with free version
Pricing
Starts at $5/user/month Trial: Yes Free Plan: Yes
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TextNow — Good for: Shortcuts
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
- Windows
- Mac
TextNow gives US and Canadian users access to free and reliable phone and texting services. The app lets you text, send group messages, or call over WiFi for both personal and business purposes.
In TextNow, you can manage group chats by changing their names and muting notifications. The app also lets you create shortcuts so you can go directly from your homescreen to the chat group.
TextNow offers a free WiFi-only version. If you’re in the US and purchase a TextNow SIM card (currently a one-off payment of $0.99), you can continue to text and call without Wi-Fi. TextNow uses an ad-supported model to keep its group text app free.
Key Features
- Group texts
- Notification muting
- Homescreen shortcuts
- Group chat customization
Pros
- Free version
- Homescreen shortcuts for easy access to group texts
Cons
- Only available in the US and Canada
- Must use a separate phone number (provided by TextNow)
Pricing
Free for Wi-Fi-only version, $0.99 for SIM card Trial: Yes Free Plan: Yes
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Ryver — Good for: Unlimited chats and file sharing
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
- Windows
- Mac
Ryver is an all-in-one team collaboration app that includes unlimited group chats and file sharing. The platform’s higher-tier plans also include unlimited voice and video calls.
You can set up group texts in Ryver based on forums or teams. Forums are useful for sending organization-wide announcements, while team conversations are good for discussing projects and issues specific to certain groups of employees. You can also create group chats for certain topics, such as projects or events.
You can use Ryver’s chat feature to share files. The chat feature is integrated with Ryver’s work management platform, so you can also create tasks from a chat, adding instructions and assigning them.
Ryver uses Single Sign-On, where you can use one username and login across multiple apps. You can log into Ryver quickly and easily using your login details for a different app, such as Gmail.
Key Features
- Unlimited group texts and file sharing
- Single Sign-On
- Integrated task management
- Settings to organize group chats
Pros
- Basic paid version allows for up to 12 users
- Large number of integrations with third-party apps
Cons
- Voice and video calls only available with higher-tier plans
- No free version
Pricing
Starts at $69/month Trial: Yes Free Plan: No
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Twist — Good for: Asynchronous messaging
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
- Windows
- Mac
Twist is an asynchronous messaging app. Asynchronous messaging allows users to send messages in their own time, without requiring an immediate response. Synchronous communication, on the other hand, involves real-time conversations, such as live chat support.
Twist organizes conversations into threads, making them easy to navigate. You can create channels to organize group texts by client, topic, or project, so nothing important goes unnoticed.
However, you can’t set a status update on Twist, so you and your team won’t know when others are online.
With Twist, you can also share past conversations. This can be useful when onboarding and training new employees who need to be filled in on previous discussions.
Key Features
- Channels and threads to organize group chats
- Set up groups by client, topic, or project
- Share past conversations
- No status updates
Pros
- Designed for use in a business context
- Designed specifically for async teams
Cons
- Fewer integrations than other group text apps
- May not suit businesses or managers who prefer synchronous communication
Pricing
Starts at $6/user/month Trial: No Free Plan: Yes
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WeChat — Good for: Social media features
Available on
- iOS
- Android
- Windows
- Mac
WeChat is a free messaging platform for personal and business use. Popular in China, WeChat has over one billion active users.
You can use WeChat to send group messages, photos, and videos, and make free group voice and video calls. In group chats, you can add members via a QR code. You’re also able to mute group chat notifications.
WeChat’s permission settings can help you manage your group chats. Group owners can edit group notices, remove members, and appoint administrators. Group administrators can send out notices, update group names, and approve and remove members.
WeChat also offers social media features such as Moments, which allows users to share photos and videos.
Key Features
- Group messages
- Permission management
- Notifications
- Localized translation
Pros
- Free
- Simple user interface
Cons
- Privacy features not as strong as other apps
- Not specifically designed for business use
Pricing
Free Trial: No Free Plan: Yes
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GroupMe — Good for: Windows users
Available on
- Web
- iOS
- Android
GroupMe was specifically designed for group chats for personal, study, and work purposes. Owned by Microsoft, it’s a good app for existing Windows users to consider.
GroupMe allows you to create group chats, send messages, and quickly reply with likes or GIFs. Features such as notifications and highlights mean that you never miss a message. The app also lets you search and create new chats, archive messages, and mark all your messages as read. You can easily share workplace events and polls as well.
It’s easy to add members to a group chat by entering their phone number, or sending them a link or QR code. Your employees also don’t need a smartphone to be invited to a GroupMe group chat.
Key Features
- Group chats
- Notifications
- Polls
- Two-step verification
Pros
- Easy to use
- Free
Cons
- Not specifically designed for business use
- Limited administrator controls
Pricing
Contact vendor for price Trial: No Free Plan: Yes
Compare the Best Group Text Apps
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Start for free
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| Reviews |
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N/A
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| Pricing |
Starts at just $29/month for the first 30 users
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Contact vendor for price
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Starts at $4.99/month
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Contact vendor for price
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Free
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Contact vendor for price
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Starts at $8.25/user/month
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Starts at $9.99/user/month
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Starts at $10/user/month
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Starts at $5/user/month
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Free for Wi-Fi-only version, $0.99 for SIM card
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Starts at $69/month
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Starts at $6/user/month
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Free
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Contact vendor for price
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| Free Trial |
yes
14-day
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no
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no
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no
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no
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no
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yes
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no
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yes
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yes
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yes
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yes
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no
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no
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no
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| Free Plan |
yes
Free Up to 10 users
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yes
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yes
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yes
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yes
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no
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yes
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no
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yes
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yes
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yes
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no
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yes
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yes
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yes
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| Use cases |
Best for: All-in-one group text app
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Good for: Security features
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Good for: Sharing large files
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Good for: Stickers and GIFs
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Good for: Notifications
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Good for: Strong privacy protections
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Good for: Workflow tools
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Good for: Sending audio and video files
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Good for: Technical teams
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Good for: Global teams
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Good for: Shortcuts
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Good for: Unlimited chats and file sharing
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Good for: Asynchronous messaging
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Good for: Social media features
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Good for: Windows users
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| Available on |
Web, iOS, Android, Windows, Mac
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Web, iOS, Android, Windows, Mac
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Web, iOS, Android
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Web, iOS, Android, Windows, Mac
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Web, iOS, Android, Windows, Mac
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Web, iOS, Android, Windows, Mac
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Web, iOS, Android, Windows, Mac
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Web, iOS, Android, Windows, Mac
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Web, iOS, Android, Windows, Mac
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iOS, Android, Windows, Mac
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Web, iOS, Android
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What Is a Group Text App?
A group text app is an app you can use to send messages to multiple people at once. You can create a group or many groups of recipients to message, and all members can reply. You can often use a group chat app to send voice notes, videos, photos, and files in addition to text messages.
Many people use group text apps for personal communication, like staying in touch with friends and family. However, business owners and managers can also use group text apps to communicate with their employees.
Group text apps are different from SMS marketing tools, such as EZ Texting, which are designed to send bulk marketing messages.
How Does a Group Text App Work?
Group text apps send and receive messages over WiFi or data. Using a group text app doesn’t usually require a phone subscription.
Group text messaging apps typically work on both desktop and mobile apps. Several also provide a platform on their website. This can be useful if you’ve lost your device or need to connect temporarily from someone else’s device.
Different group text apps offer different features. These include push notifications, administrator controls, sent and read receipts, and more. Many group text apps use security features like end-to-end encryption, which ensures your messages are sent securely.
Other security features include disappearing messages. In addition to group chat functions, some apps also offer group voice and video calls.
Some group text apps are standalone services, used exclusively for messaging. Others are included in a suite of business apps designed to improve business workflows.
The Benefits of a Group Text App
Effective communication is key to a successful business. By using a group text app to keep in contact with your employees, you can ensure everyone at your organization is always up to date and on the same page.
Group text apps can help you quickly and easily communicate with your staff in real time, and resolve any issues as they arise. This reduces the risk of miscommunication, which would normally cost you time and money to fix.
Group text apps save you time in general, too. Rather than writing the same message to send individually to many people, you can write one message and send it to tens or hundreds of recipients. These apps also help with information security in your organization. You can make sure messages go to the right people, and can control how your employees share information and documents.
Most group text apps are user-friendly, and you and your employees may have already used them or something similar before. That means minimal training is required if you choose a group text app as a communication solution.
You can access group text apps across a range of devices, including mobile phones. This helps simplify and strengthen communication with deskless workers out in the field.
How Much Does a Group Text App Cost?
There are many free group text apps available. Paid group text platforms usually charge a monthly rate per user, sometimes up to a certain number of users. You might also have to pay extra if you need to add more users.
For example, Slack charges $7.25 per user per month, while Mattermost charges $10 per user per month. Per-user pricing models can quickly add up, especially if the app doesn’t offer a free plan for smaller groups.
Connecteam offers excellent value as a group texting app. Our chat feature is included in our small business plan, which is completely free for up to 10 users. For larger businesses, we charge $29 per month for up to 30 users, then just $0.50 per user per month for each additional user.
FAQs
How do you text a large group of people?
A group texting app is the easiest way to text a large group of people. Many group text apps let you add tens, hundreds, or even thousands of members to a chat. Connecteam and Google Hangouts are examples of group text apps.
What is the best app for sending group texts?
Connecteam is the best app for group texting. It’s perfect for group messaging for businesses, particularly deskless workforces. With our chat feature, you can quickly and easily communicate with your employees in real time.
Is there a free app to send mass text messages?
There are many free group text apps you can use to send mass text messages. Connecteam has two plans that give you free access to our group chat function: our small business plan and our limited plan. These allow up to 30 users to send group messages for free.
The Bottom Line On Group Text App
Group text apps are a great way to quickly and easily send messages to many people at once, saving you time and reducing miscommunication among your employees. There are many free group text apps available, and most include features like file sharing, end-to-end encryption, voice and video calls, and more.
Connecteam’s group chat feature is simple to use, customizable, and secure, and offers features like push notifications, one-way communication channels, and more. That’s why we believe Connecteam is the best app for group texting of 2024.