SKYPE QIK
A fun new option for video messaging
Skype has long been a leader in video conferencing, but now it's taking that expertise into the hot, new area of video messaging. Chasing after competitors such as Snapchat and Facebook, the company revamped Skype Qik — formerly Microsoft's live-streaming app — into a program that lets users share short video clips.
The app lets you add multiple members to a video conversation to get everyone in on the fun. You can also pre-record short canned responses such as your best smirk or eye roll to drop into conversations at the appropriate time.
Time will tell if it can reach a Snapchat-level of adoption, but little quirks like that, plus Skype's brand recognition, could give it a shot.
As you might expect of a video messaging app, Skype Qik requires access to your microphone and camera. Also, the app does not hook into users' existing Skype accounts, opting instead to pull contacts from their address books. To activate Qik, you must send your phone number to Skype, which will then send you a confirmation code back.
Free, for iOS and Android devices.
WAYFARE
Be a penpal to another smartphone user
Wayfare takes the concept of the penpal into the modern era with a smartphone app that offers you the chance to make one-on-one connections.
Users can sign up with their Facebook account or e-mail address, and are matched at random with others across the world. The app has users in Japan, Britain, Germany and beyond. Once you're matched, you can chat and send each other fun on photo “missions” to get to know each other, such as “what tourists in my city never see.”
The app will translate your messages, so language barriers shouldn't be a big problem. Unlike most apps, Wayfare makes you wait at least 20 minutes between messages.
Developers say that's to help you make a personal connection. It's an eternity in the smartphone age, but almost nothing when compared to how long it takes a letter to travel.Some things to note: You are giving personal information to a stranger — that's kind of the point. I didn't have any bad experiences on Wayfare, but the app does include an option to “report abuse.” Wayfare also asks for location information. Where you are is a major part of the fun.
Free, for iOS and Android devices. - The Washington Post