The app is like a cross between the original eBuddy and WhatsApp. You can send messages and multimedia files with eBuddy XMS to anyone else who has the app installed, and vice versa.

To set up messaging with eBuddy XMS, you need to enter your phone number, then an activation code (sent to you via SMS). You'll be issued with a PIN number once you've entered the code. You can then chat with anyone on eBuddy XMS, adding them as contacts by entering their phone number or PIN number. There's an option to scan your phone book or Facebook friends for any contacts who are using eBuddy XMS.

In terms of features, eBuddy XMS lets you send photos, videos and emoticons, as well as text messages. Unlike WhatsApp, there's no option to record and send audio files, but there is a group messaging feature.

Providing you can convince your friends to switch from Viber or WhatsApp, eBuddy XMS makes for a simple, free messaging app.

Download eBuddy XMS 2.14 in Softonic

This free chat app is supported by ads, but fortunately they are really not intrusive, and you'll hardly notice them at all. Like any messaging client you need an account, which means first creating an eBuddy account before adding other web messengers.

eBuddy supports lots of networks - MSN, Yahoo!, AIM, Google Talk, Facebook, ICQ, MySpace and Hyves. Adding them to the app is as simple as entering your details, and you'll be automatically signed in. All your account contacts will be listed alphabetically, in online and offline groups. This is fine, but if you're signed into lots of services it can get pretty busy!

eBuddy is very user friendly, and you'll have no problems opening chats with your friends. Each service varies slightly, but in general, chats follow the 'bubble' design seen in the iPhone's SMS app. It works in portrait or landscape, great for people who like the larger keyboard.

eBuddy is a functional and attractive messaging client, offering a good range of networks in an easy to use package.

Download eBuddy Pro 5.2.0 in Softonic

Like eBuddy, you'll need to sign up for a Meebo account before you get started adding your other messaging accounts. Meebo has an A-Z of almost every instant messaging service you'll have heard of, so if you have tons of accounts, the chances are you'll find them here!

Once you have added the services you want, using Meebo is really easy. Contacts are listed alphabetically, but also grouped into buddies, friends and other contacts (this depends on the services you use). With lots of accounts, it can be a bit overwhelming, but otherwise it's easy to use and looks good

Meebo may be easy to use, but it is a little basic. For example, with Windows Live contacts, Meebo doesn't show status, so you can see whether people are online, but not if they are busy. Other than that, you can send images or take pictures with the iPhone and there's a good range of emoticons provided.

Despite being a bit on the basic side, the usability and support for probably any messenger service you will want makes Meebo a great choice for dedicated instant message fans

Download Meebo 1.91 in Softonic