When Hike acquired Zip Phone, a US-based company which
allows users make calls over Wi-Fi, it was apparent that the Indian
cross-platform instant messaging service is aiming to introduce the
voice-calling feature. The images of the said feature have made their way to
the web.
Hike Messenger's voice-calling feature could be soon to the
app, within the next few days. The service will be optimized for 2G networks in
India as well as trying to ensure minimum bandwidth usage so that data costs
don't go through the roof.
Hike's voice-calling, which will need internet access, shall
be more data efficient and thus work well even on networks where internet
connectivity is poor. The service will be available globally.
The voice-calling feature on messaging apps is something
people may hear a lot in 2015. Facebook-owned WhatsApp had revealed plans to
launch the feature last year but that didn't happen.
It was reported that one of the reasons for the delay was
because WhatsApp was finding ways to implement voice calling services in areas
where internet connectivity is poor because 3G services and Wi-Fi access is
restricted in many parts of the world and consequently 2G services are still
more important.
There are also rumors with respect to WhatsApp playback and
call-recording feature. What is unclear is whether these features on the app
will be paid or whether users will have to start paying for WhatsApp once the
new features are rolled out. Another report claimed that WhatsApp will
integrate 'Call via Skype' feature to its app.
Hike managed to cross 35 million users since its launch in
December 2012 which is quite impressive for a new brand in a highly-competitive
market.
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