Yahoo! Messenger

Remember Yahoo! Messenger? It was a big part of many people's online lives, but it officially shut down on July 17, 2018. Yahoo hasn't rolled out a direct replacement, but they're working on something new called Yahoo Squirrel, which is in beta testing and focuses on group messaging.

If you're looking for solid alternatives, here are some of the most popular options out there:

Skype WIN MAC
Skype is probably the most well known free messaging and calling app worldwide. You can send texts, make video calls, or just chat by voice all over the internet. It even lets you call regular phones using Skype credits or subscriptions. Built on peer to peer tech, it works across desktops, phones, and tablets. Call quality is generally great (as long as your internet holds up!), and it comes with handy extras like call history, group calls, and secure file sharing. That said, some users have raised concerns about how much data it uses and occasional security issues.

Viber WIN MAC
Viber is another free VoIP service that’s gained a loyal following. It syncs seamlessly between your phone and computer, so you won’t miss a message even if your phone’s charging in the other room. It’s especially handy if you want to keep chatting while working on your computer no more switching between devices.

Slack WIN MAC
If you're part of a team whether for work, a side project, or just friends planning something Slack is a game changer. It organizes conversations into channels, so everything stays tidy and searchable. You can share files, links, and ideas without drowning in messy group chats. It’s built for collaboration and keeps everyone on the same page.

WhatsApp WIN MAC
Almost everyone knows WhatsApp. While it started as a mobile app, it now has desktop versions for both Windows and Mac. You can sync your chats across devices and enjoy the same simple, reliable messaging experience just on a bigger screen.