Viber Adds Video Calls with Latest App Update

  • Wednesday, September 10th, 2014
  • Author: Tim Maytom
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viber comboOver-the-top messaging service Viber has added video calling to its functionality with its latest update for its iOS and Android apps.

The service has offered video calling through its desktop app for some time, but by adding the function to its app versions, it positions itself as a rival to FaceTime and Skype, as well as other OTT messaging services such as WhatsApp and Line.

The apps unique selling point is that no usernames are required – users are identified by their mobile number, so when an existing contact joins Viber, the service notices that their number is already in your phone, and sends you an alert to let you know.

Viber, which was acquired for £900m (£554m) earlier this year by Japanese eCommerce firm Rakuten, boasts more than 400m users, who utilise the app to text, call and send photo and video messages over wi-fi and 3G for free.