There’s a new chat app in town called Wire, and it looks like it wish to take on popular messaging apps like Skype. In fact, Wire is even backed by Janus Friis, the co-founder of Skype, who calls its own program a little outdated. Friis even boasts that Wire has got better things to offer including a clean and simple interface, better file compression, and makes use of newer devices to deliver a better experience to users.
“Skype was launched more than a decade ago. A lot has changed since then – we are all used to free calls and texting, and we have taken to carrying our computers in our pockets. It’s time to create the best possible communication tools, as beautiful as they are useful. Wire is just that.” – Janus Friis.
Available on Android, iOS, Mac and soon on the browser, Wire is a very straight-forward chat app that lets you, well, chat and easily share files with your friends. It has a minimalistic interface, and you can easily chat with your friends, make VoIP calls, or share pictures, audio and even GIFs with them. Unfortunately, one of the most important feature (if it really wish to take on Skype) – real-time video calling, isn’t available…yet. Wire promises that real-time video calling and other features later on, including HTML5 web support, and WebRTC.
Unlike messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, Wire requires the regular email address and password to log on. This means that it will not be able to go through the mobile numbers in your address book and add people to your contact list. It does, however, have a pretty good idea of the people you may know. To add someone, all you need is either their name or email address. An approval is needed if you wish to contact someone, which is great so you’ll less likely be spammed and your stalker will not be able to see when you were last active.
If you wish to try out Wire, you can download it via the Play Store, App Store or Mac App Store.
