Introduction
In the evolving world of instant messaging and communication apps. Vuber has carved out a distinct and important place. While it may not dominate headlines like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Signal, Viber boasts a unique blend of features, an impressive user base, and a fascinating history. Over the years, Viber has evolved into more than just a calling app—it has transformed into a multifaceted platform offering messaging, entertainment, business solutions, and even payments in select regions. For millions of users, Viber is not just a communication tool but a lifestyle app that bridges personal conversations, professional networking, and global connectivity. The article dives deep into Viber’s story and functionalities. Advantages, limitations, privacy policies, how-to-guides, and its role in shaping modern communication, alongside a focused comparison with Telegram.
A Brief History of Telegram VS Viber
A Brief History of Telegram
Telegram was founded in 2013 by brothers Pavel and Nikolai Durov, who were already known for creating VKontakte (Russia’s largest social network). Designed as a cloud-based messaging app with a strong commitment to privacy and freedom, Telegram has carved its own space as a tool for both private communication and large-scale content-sharing. With over 900 million users, it continues to grow among those seeking flexibility, scalability, and independence from corporate giants.
A Brief History of viber
Founded in 20210 in Israel by Talmon Marco and Igor Magazinnik.
Original Purpose: To provide free VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) calls on smartphones.
Milestone Acquisition In 2014, Viber was acquired by Japanese tech giant Rakuten for %900 million.
Expansion transitioned from being a call-first app to a full-fledged messaging and social platform, offering text, stickers, group chats, video calls, and more
Current Reach: Over 1 billion users globally, with strong popularity in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia.By 2014, the company made Messenger mandatory for mobile users, which rapidly expandedÂ
It’s reached despite early criticism. Over time, Messenger evolved from basic texting into a full communication platform with voice and video calls, stickers, payments, chatbots, and business tools. Following Facebook’s rebrand to Meta in 2021, Messenger became central to Meta’s plan for a connected ecosystem across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. With over a billion users worldwide.
unique features OF viber
End-to-End EncryptionÂ
Like Telegram’s secret chats, Viber employs end-to-end encryption, ensuring privacy for personal messages and calls.
Viber Communities
Unlike Standard group chats, Communities allow unlimited members, custom rules, and advanced moderation tools.
Vider OutÂ
A paid feature that lets users call non-Viber numbers (landlines and mobiles) at competitive international rates.
Stickers and Emojis Market
Viber pioneered rich sticker packs, offering free and premium designs. This creative marketplace remains a defining feature.
Integration with Rakuten Services
As part of the Rakuten ecosystem, Viber has integrated shopping, loyalty programs, and payment features in select regions.
Cross-Platform Availability
Available on iOS, Android, Windows, asOS, and Linux with seamless syncing.
Disappearing Messages
Viber supports self-destructing messages, giving users more privacy control in chats.
Hidden Chats
Allows users to lock private chats with a PIN code for an additional security layer.
Business Messaging SolutionsÂ
Brands can connect with users for marketing campaigns, customer support, and transactional updates.
Polls and Quizzes
In group chats and communities, Viber lets members create interactive polls and quizzes, enhancing engagement.
Comparison Table of Telegram VS Facebook Messenger
| Feature | Viber | Telegram |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | End-to-end encryption by default in private chats | End-to-end encryption only in Secret Chats |
| Group Size | Use up to 250 in groups, unlimited in Communities | Up to 200,000 members in groups |
| Customization | Stickers, themes, Ringtones | Themes, bots, custom stickers |
| Voice and Video Calls | Free HD calls + Viber Out for non-users | Free voice and video calls (user-to-user only) |
| User Base | 1 B++ + users (popular in Eastern Europe and Asia) | 900M+ users (global, especially in tech-savvy regions) |
| Business Use | Official Business Messaging solutions | Bots and Channels for Businesses |
| Hidden Chats | Yes, with PIN code | No, but allows Secret Chats |
| File Sharing | Up to 200MB | Up to 2GB |
| Communities | Unlimited Members, moderator Tools | Channels with unlimited members |
| Monetization | Sticker packs, Viber out, and Rakutan services. | Premium subscription, bots, donations |
Privacy Policy
Viber takes privacy seriously and has implemented strict security measures. Here are some highlights of its policy. End-to-end encryption for personal chats, calls, photos, and videos. The hidden chats option with PIN lock for sensitive conversations. Minimal data collection compared to social media apps. Data storage messages are not stored on Viber servers once delivered. Third-party sharing is limited, mainly for service improvement and integration with Rakutan services. In contrast, Telegram stores messages on the cloud (except for secret chats), which makes Viber attractive for those who prioritize default encryption and online safety.
A Beginner’s Guide
- Download and install Viber from the Google Play Store or the Desktop platforms.
- Register with Phone Number Verification is done via SMS code.
- Sync contacts with Viber automatically imports your phone contacts.
- Start Messaging, send texts, stickers, or create a group chat.
- Make Calls: Use free HD calls with Viber users or Viber Out for international numbers.
- Explore features: Join communities, send disappearing messages, and try hidden chats.
- Personalize your experience: Browse sticker packs, change chat backgrounds, or apply themes.
Rare Facts about Viber
- Viber was one of the first apps to launch free HD calls in 2010.
- It has country-specific dominance; for example, it’s more popular than WhatsApp in Ukraine, Belarus, and Serbia.
- Viber integrates with Rakuten Viki, allowing entertainment promotions within the app.
- During conflicts and crises, Viber has offered free calling credits for affected regions.Â
- Viber Communities have been used for political campaigns, sports fan clubs, and educational hubs.
Conclusion
Viber is far more than just a messaging application. It is a complete communication ecosystem. Over the years, it has continuously evolved, offering HD calls, encrypted chats, global communities, business messaging solutions, and affordable international calling options. While Telegram may outshine it in file-sharing capabilities and large group management, Viber excels in privacy, creative personalization, and telecommunication features like Viber Out. For users who prioritize fun, privacy, and global connectivity, Viber provides an excellent balance of security, entertainment, and usability.