WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps in Pakistan, with over 45 million monthly active users as of 2022. However, in recent years many Pakistanis have looked for WhatsApp alternatives due to concerns over privacy, security and lack of features. The need for a WhatsApp alternative in Pakistan has grown due to bans imposed on the app temporarily by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) due to objections over the app’s privacy policy. This has led many users to explore alternative apps that can offer similar features without compromising on security or privacy.
Why Look for a WhatsApp Alternative in Pakistan?
There are several reasons why Pakistanis may want to switch to a WhatsApp alternative:
- Privacy and security concerns over WhatsApp’s data sharing with parent company Facebook
- WhatsApp regularly updating its privacy policy which users must accept to keep using the app
- WhatsApp sharing metadata like phone numbers and location with Facebook
- Bans imposed by PTA over objections to WhatsApp’s privacy policy
- Lack of features like message scheduling, polls, themes compared to other apps
- Seeking an app that is more aligned with local culture and traditions
Many users in Pakistan prefer an app that has been developed domestically and caters more closely to local user requirements. There is a desire for an app that provides privacy assurances and adheres to local data protection laws.
Top WhatsApp Alternative Apps in Pakistan
Here are some of the most popular and highly rated WhatsApp alternative apps used in Pakistan:
Telenor Easypaisa Chat+
Telenor Pakistan launched this messaging app in 2021 as an alternative to WhatsApp. Some key features include:
- End-to-end encryption for messages
- Ability to send audio messages, attachments, stickers
- Group video calls with up to 9 participants
- Message scheduling option
- Online payment options
The app has been downloaded over 5 million times from the Google Play Store.
Jazz Messenger
Jazz Messenger is a messaging app introduced by Jazz Pakistan in 2021. It provides the following features:
- Free on-net calling and messaging
- Group voice and video calls
- End-to-end encryption
- Multimedia messaging
- Personalized emojis and themes
The app has over 1 million downloads on the Google Play Store.
Zong Push Talk
Zong Push Talk is a VoIP and messaging app by Zong launched in 2022. Some key features:
- Make Zong to Zong calls over WiFi or mobile data
- Send chat messages securely
- Group messaging and conference calls
- Share locations, audio messages, photos
The app provides a good alternative for making free Zong to Zong calls.
Vsee
California-based Vsee launched its cross-platform messaging app in Pakistan allowing:
- One-on-one and group video calls in HD quality
- Instant messaging with chat encryption
- Screen sharing
- Video and audio messages
- Synchronized watching of media like YouTube videos during calls
Vsee offers secure and high quality video chat and messaging facilities.
Telenor SAMAA Chat
Telenor Pakistan partnered with SAMAA TV to launch this messaging and broadcasting app in 2022. It offers:
- Privacy assured messaging with end-to-end encryption
- Video conferencing feature
- Broadcasting option that turns personal chats into broadcast groups
- Monetization opportunities for content creators
The broadcasting feature where ordinary chats can be turned into public broadcast groups is unique.
GB WhatsApp
This is a popular modded version of WhatsApp used by many in Pakistan to access advanced features like:
- Higher media sharing limit of up to 50MB
- Feature to hide blue ticks and second tick
- Hide online status from contacts
- New privacy settings and tweaks
However, modded apps like GB WhatsApp break WhatsApp’s terms of service and security experts advise avoiding them.
Key Considerations for Choosing a WhatsApp Alternative
Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a WhatsApp alternative app in Pakistan:
- Privacy protection and encryption – Look for apps that offer end-to-end encryption and have proper data protection assurances.
- Multimedia messaging – The app should allow sending photos, videos, GIFs, voice notes etc.
- Calling features – Options for voice and video calling preferably in HD quality.
- Group chat – Groups are essential for family, friends and office communication.
- Cross-platform availability – Apps available across Android, iOS, Web and Windows allow easier communication.
- Extra features – Useful additional features like message scheduling, polls, themes, cloud storage integration etc.
- Active user base – Look for apps with a sizable active user base for better reach.
- Ease of use – The app should have an intuitive and user-friendly interface.
Analyzing apps against these key considerations will help identify the most suitable WhatsApp alternative.
Comparison of Key WhatsApp Alternative Apps in Pakistan
| App Name | Platforms | Privacy Protection | Calling & Video Call | Group Chat | Number of Downloads |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Telenor Easypaisa Chat+ | Android, iOS | End-to-end encryption | Voice calls, video calls | Groups up to 90 | Over 5 million |
| Jazz Messenger | Android, iOS | End-to-end encryption | Voice calls, video calls | No limit specified | Over 1 million |
| Zong Push Talk | Android, iOS | Secure messaging | Voice calls | Groups up to 10 | Over 100,000 |
| Vsee | Android, iOS, Windows, Mac | Encrypted messaging | HD video calls | Up to 8 participants | Over 100,000 |
| Telenor SAMAA Chat | Android | End-to-end encryption | Video conferencing | Very large groups | Over 10,000 |
This comparison shows that the top contenders like Telenor Easypaisa Chat+, Jazz Messenger and Vsee offer end-to-end encryption for privacy protection along with multimedia messaging and group chat options. Telenor Easypaisa Chat+ has the highest number of downloads so far.
How Popular is WhatsApp Still in Pakistan?
Despite strong alternatives, WhatsApp still continues to dominate messaging in Pakistan for now. Some key indicators of WhatsApp’s continuing popularity in Pakistan:
- 45+ million monthly active users as of 2022
- Over 80% market share for instant messaging
- 700+ million WhatsApp accounts in Pakistan
- Used by individuals and businesses for communication
- Largest countrywise user base for WhatsApp in the world
WhatsApp has become deeply embedded in Pakistan’s social fabric. Some factors for its popularity are:
- Ease of use – Simple interface and sharing options
- Network effects – Wide user base keeps activity self-sustaining
- Stickiness – Users have memory and attachments invested in chats
- Free messaging and calling
- Group features – Important for family and social groups
- Business use – Many businesses depend on WhatsApp for customer engagement
Due to these factors, WhatsApp retains its position as the top messaging app in Pakistan despite strong competitors. However, privacy-centric apps are rising in popularity.
Conclusion
While WhatsApp continues to lead messaging in Pakistan, there is increasing user demand for secure and private alternatives that align better with local preferences. Telenor Easypaisa Chat+, Jazz Messenger and Vsee are leading contenders providing encrypted messaging, multimedia content sharing, HD calls and group chat features. As users get more concerned about privacy issues with WhatsApp, its alternatives can potentially gain more traction in Pakistan, especially if they build up large enough networks. But breaking WhatsApp’s entrenched position will be difficult despite concerns over its privacy protections.