Alternatives to Google Messages

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We have recently faced and analyzed the alternatives to Whatsapp, what to do however regarding the messages, i.e. the simple ones SMS? There are serious alternatives to Google Messages? However, we clearly don't want to think only of Google Messages but of all the messaging apps for SMS. Furthermore, SMS are generally sent in clear text and it is certainly not impossible to trace an SMS and its contents.

But who uses SMS anymore? Why should I look for alternatives to Google Messages?

You might think that texting is now out of fashion. This is somewhat true but don't underestimate their value. Always remember that Signal, Whatsapp, Telegram and all these apps they use the internet. Sometimes a bit of connection is enough to send a simple text message, but in any case we always need the internet. So what to do in case of total absence of internet? (just think of a temporary network failure, but let's not underestimate government shutdowns).

Here are our choices

QKSMS

Open source

QKSMS it's one of the best alternatives to Google Messages. It totally is open source, it is aesthetically pleasing and has a lot of functionality. If you really can't find anyone to use Silence in an encrypted way you could opt for this SMS app. If the first two alternatives didn't satisfy you, take a look at it, it could be the perfect app for you!
You can find it both on Play Store what up F-Droid.

• source code

Simple SMS Messenger

Open source

The suite's applications Simple Mobile Tools they are now known and used by many people. They are simple applications and Open source, free and doing the right thing. And they generally do it very well. If you don't like frills and invasive advertising, Simple SMS Messenger it's the app for you! We are very sure that you will not regret it. You can find it both on F-Droid that on Play Store.

• source code

Briar

it does not read SMS but replaces SMS
Open source

Briar is an application for sending emergency messages. It totally is free ed Open source and allows you to send messages when you are in total absence of internet. The messages will be end-to-end encrypted. You can use Briar with the network Bluetooth, with the Wifi or with Tor. Perfect for activists, journalists or for anyone who needs to contact someone even where there is no internet (for one natural disaster or for government reprisals). You can download it on Google Play or up F-Droid.

• source code

Bridgefy

it does not read SMS but replaces SMS

As a last resort we would like to point out this app, which for us rightfully falls into the category alternatives to Google Messages even if it's not really used for texting exactly like Briar. But it can be useful in case there is no longer any type of connection because it comes created a Bluetooth network between users close enough without anyone being able to spy on you. It seems to have been used by some demonstrators in Hong Hong to organize themselves. Unfortunately it is not open source and it's not free, it still deserves an honorable mention. It can also come in handy in case of extreme natural disasters.

• download for iOS

Signal

Open source

Signal will soon remove support for SMS ^{1 2} so you better start thinking about an alternative.

Let's go back to talking about Signal, the instant messaging app that we have already recommended previously. In fact, Signal also allows you to send SMS. But be careful, don't be fooled: SMS sent with Signal Not they are absolutely encrypted. We therefore recommend this option to those who do not want to install too many apps. This way he can use Signal is in an encrypted version that in non-encrypted version for SMS.
Can be used by both PC which can be downloaded from Android via the Play Store. There is also an open-source version for iOS.

• source code

Silence

Silence It has not received updates for several years and is therefore no longer recommended as an application for SMS. We will update you if development is resumed.

The first alternative that we propose is an incredible app called Silence. This app is entirely open source, use the Signal protocol and send Encrypted SMS both in transit and locally. As with all messaging apps the obvious requirement is that both the sender and the recipient must use it Silence. It is otherwise impossible to send an SMS encrypted with Silence if the person receiving it does not have this app installed.

• source code

Pulse SMS

Pulse SMS was purchased by the company Marple Media which has an invasive and not entirely reassuring strategy ³. We therefore do not know how it will evolve but in the past it has stood out for its massive use of advertising and tracers invasive, such as did with Player FM.
We therefore advise against its use.

1. Signal begins removing SMS support in the Android app[↩]
2. Removing SMS support from Signal Android (soon)[↩]
3. It looks like Pulse SMS has been bought by Maple Media[↩]

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