Ping! is an app that allows iPhone and iPod Touch and now iPad users to communicate as thread-based instant messaging with push notification capability for free. Ping! works on 3G or WiFi. All parties mush have the app installed.
I see 2 reasons to use Ping!:
- SMS to friends located overseas
- SMS in a low cell reception area
The app does not need to stay active in order to receive incoming text messages. Once downloaded, you set up a name, invite other iPhone, iPod Touch friend owners via email from within the app telling your id.
The app works flawlessly during my test, I could exchange text messages with friends overseas at no extra cost. The UI is simple and intuitive, very similar to the built-in Messaging app; works in both portrait and landscape mode. Linking the Ping! ID to the contact in your Address Book will allow you to see their photo/picture. Alternatively, you can use Whatsapp if you want cross-platform chat (iPhone and Blackberry for now. Android and Nokia Symbian support is coming soon).
The app just adds mms functionalities.
Ping! is available in the Apple App store!
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMuai7knJuI[/youtube]
Video link
The iPad version leverages the larger screen for nicer UI and split-screen view in landscape mode .
The iPad version costs $2.99 HERE!
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