Text Me: Second Phone Number App & Review

I've looked into the TextMe app, offering second phone numbers for seamless communication management. It provides unlimited texting and calling across the U.S., Canada, and over 100 countries, plus multimedia messaging and voicemail features. However, users face drawbacks like unreliable message delivery, privacy concerns due to potential data selling, and frequent app crashes. Billing issues have also been frustrating, with unexpected charges and poor customer support. While it features easy setup and similar interfaces to Google Voice, security for sensitive transactions and emergency support remains lacking. Let's explore further to understand the complete user experience and alternatives.

Key Takeaways

• TextMe allows users to generate multiple phone numbers from a single account for personal and business communication separation.
• The app supports unlimited texting and calling in the U.S., Canada, and over 100 countries.
• Users have reported issues with message delivery failures and sudden account blocks.
• Concerns include privacy risks, potential data selling, and unreliable customer support.
• Billing discrepancies and increased subscription costs have caused transparency concerns among users.

Virtual Phone Number Service

When considering a virtual phone number service, TextMe stands out with its ability to generate multiple numbers from a single account, which is perfect for keeping personal and business communications separate. Its support for unlimited texting and calling to U.S. and Canadian numbers, along with international SMS capabilities, offers significant flexibility and utility. Additionally, features like voicemail and call blocking enhance privacy and security, making it an appealing choice for those prioritizing anonymity. Furthermore, the user-friendly interface of virtual phone services like Google Voice improves overall user satisfaction, making it easier to navigate settings and manage communications effectively.

Main highlights/features

If you're on the lookout for a virtual phone number service, TextMe stands out with its array of robust features. This app offers a thorough solution for anyone needing a second phone number for personal or business use.

One of the primary appeals is the ability to seamlessly generate multiple numbers, which allows users to effectively separate different communication streams without hassle.

TextMe excels with its support for unlimited texting and calling, particularly to any U.S. or Canadian number. This guarantees that users have a reliable and versatile secondary contact method at their disposal.

The app's capability to send and receive multimedia messages, including pictures and videos, further enhances the communication experience, making it a well-rounded virtual phone service.

Here are some main highlights:

• Multiple virtual phone numbers: Easily manage personal and business communications.
• Unlimited texting and calling: Connect with any U.S. or Canadian number without restrictions.
• Multimedia messages: Share photos and videos seamlessly through the app.
• Thorough virtual phone service: Dedicated voicemail boxes and group chat functionalities.

Virtual Number Functionality Explained

When using TextMe, the virtual number functionality allows us to manage separate communication channels for personal and business purposes efficiently.

Each virtual number supports unlimited calling and texting, including the ability to text internationally without extra charges, which can broaden our outreach without compromising security.

This feature is particularly advantageous for those who prioritize maintaining their privacy while staying connected globally.

Virtual Number Functionality Overview

Exploring the virtual number functionality of TextMe reveals a powerful tool for managing communications with ease and flexibility. With the ability to generate multiple virtual numbers, TextMe allows users to effortlessly separate personal and business interactions without needing multiple devices.

This feature shines particularly for those who value privacy and organization, as it supports unlimited texting and calling. Users can enjoy free texting and international calling without revealing their primary phone number, which enhances anonymity and reduces costs.

These virtual numbers aren't just limited to domestic use; they can be utilized internationally, offering a substantial advantage for frequent travelers or those with contacts abroad. By using virtual numbers, users can avoid high international calling charges, which can be a significant expense otherwise.

The app's design guarantees that managing these numbers is straightforward, with features like voicemail and text notifications tailored for each number, keeping everything organized and accessible.

Free International Texting Feature

TextMe's free international texting feature stands out as a significant advantage for users looking to maintain global communication without incurring additional costs. The messaging app allows me to create a second phone number, which is particularly useful for separating personal and professional communications. This functionality means I can send and receive SMS messages to over 100 countries without worrying about extra charges, enhancing my connectivity with contacts worldwide.

The app's virtual number functionality offers privacy and convenience, allowing me to manage multiple contacts effortlessly. With free international texting, I can communicate seamlessly across regions, sending SMS to any U.S. or Canadian phone number. This is especially beneficial for those of us who frequently interact with international clients or friends, as it eliminates the need for a physical SIM card swap or additional phone line.

Moreover, TextMe provides a user-friendly interface, making it easy to integrate this virtual number alongside my existing phone services. Whether I'm a casual user or a mobile entrepreneur, the app caters to my needs by providing a cost-effective solution for international communication.

TextMe's combination of a second phone number and free international texting makes it an appealing choice for anyone looking to enhance their messaging capabilities.

User Experience

When examining the user experience of the TextMe app, it's essential to take into account how the app setup instructions contribute to its overall functionality. Many users report that the instructions are unclear, leading to initial confusion and setting the stage for the app's broader issues. This lack of clarity in the setup phase may exacerbate feelings of frustration as users encounter additional problems like frequent crashes and unreliable messaging. Users have noted that TextFree offers customizable voicemail options, enhancing communication personalization, which some may find lacking in the TextMe app.

App Setup Instructions

Setting up the TextMe app is a straightforward process, requiring just a few simple steps that guarantee you can quickly start using its features.

First, you need to install the app from either the Google Play Store or Apple Store. The installation demands 124.4 MB of storage space, so make sure your device can accommodate this.

Once installed, the app requests permissions for contacts, microphone, and camera access. These permissions are essential for making calls and sending text messages efficiently.

Creating an account is the next step, which you can do via email or by linking a social media profile. This step enables the app's functionalities, including the ability to obtain a personal and possibly multiple phone numbers, depending on your needs.

The design of the user interface is intuitive, making it easy to use, regardless of your tech skills.

Once you've completed these steps, you can access unlimited texting and calling within the app. There are also in-app purchases available if you wish to enhance your experience further.

This setup process is designed to be seamless, ensuring that users can easily navigate and communicate without hassle.

Strengths and Weaknesses Overview

When considering the strengths and weaknesses of TextMe, the free international texting feature stands out as a significant advantage, offering cost-effective communication across over 100 countries.

However, it's essential to recognize the frequent billing discrepancies reported by users, which raise concerns about the app's financial reliability.

These contrasting aspects highlight the need to weigh the app's benefits against potential frustrations.

Free International Texting Feature

TextMe's free international texting feature offers a compelling advantage for those seeking cost-effective global communication. For just $4.99 per month, users can make calls and send texts both domestically and internationally, providing unlimited text options to over 100 countries.

The ability to create multiple phone numbers adds a layer of privacy, allowing users to separate personal and professional messages. However, while this feature is attractive, it's important to reflect on the reliability issues reported by some users.

Several users have shared concerns that can affect the app's overall effectiveness:

• Message Delivery Failures: Not all messages seem to reach their intended recipients, which can be frustrating.
• Sudden Account Blocks: Accounts have reportedly been blocked without warning, interrupting communication.
• No Emergency Call Support: The inability to make emergency calls like 911 is a significant limitation.
• Global Reach vs. Reliability: While the reach is impressive, inconsistent service can undermine its benefits.
• Moovit allows for route customization based on user preferences, enhancing planning flexibility.

These reliability issues can be a significant drawback, especially for those relying on the app for essential communication.

As a result, balancing the app's cost-effective international reach with its occasional service hiccups becomes essential for prospective users.

Frequent Billing Discrepancies Reported

Many users have expressed frustration over frequent billing discrepancies with the app, which raises concerns about its financial transparency.

It's troubling to see reports of unexpected higher costs when users anticipated a more manageable expenditure. The app initially offered a subscription at £4.99 per year, but some users now face an annual fee of £19.99, a steep increase that many weren't prepared for.

Consider these points:

• Users have reported being charged weekly instead of monthly, leading to unexpected higher costs that accumulate quickly.
• Premium services are reportedly needed for basic functionalities, resulting in double charges for similar services.
• Multiple accounts have been inexplicably blocked after sending messages, prompting billing disputes.
• The lack of responsive customer support leaves users unable to effectively resolve billing discrepancies.

These issues highlight significant weaknesses in the app's billing system.

The unexpected higher costs and premium services requirements frustrate users who feel misled. Moreover, the lack of effective customer support exacerbates the situation, as unresolved billing discrepancies continue to mount.

For any app, especially one that provides essential communication services, ensuring transparent and reliable billing practices is crucial to maintaining user trust and satisfaction. Unlike the Aura Frames app, which has no hidden charges or trial periods, this app's billing practices have left users feeling deceived.

Features vs. Google Voice

When comparing TextMe and Google Voice, I notice that TextMe offers the advantage of multiple free numbers and unlimited communication within certain regions.

On the other hand, Google Voice excels with features like voicemail transcription and seamless integration with Google's suite of tools.

However, TextMe's international communication at no extra cost contrasts with potential fees incurred by Google Voice users for overseas calls.

Both apps raise distinctive privacy concerns, as TextMe mainly focuses on messaging and calling, whereas Google Voice's integration with other Google services might raise additional privacy considerations.

Additionally, the Chat AI app's offline mode supports continuous accessibility, which can significantly enhance user convenience compared to the always-online requirements of other apps.

Comparison With Google Voice Features

In comparing the features of TextMe and Google Voice, it's evident that both services cater to different user needs through their unique offerings. While TextMe provides multiple phone numbers for free texting and calling, Google Voice offers a single primary number that can link to various devices and accounts. This flexibility in number management makes TextMe appealing for those who need to make calls and send real SMS across a wide range of countries—over 40, in fact.

Google Voice, however, limits free calls to the US and Canada, charging for international connections, which mightn't suit users with a global focus.

When considering media capabilities, both platforms allow users to send and receive pictures, videos, and voicemails. Yet, Google Voice goes a step further with voicemail transcription and seamless integration with Google services, which could be a significant advantage for users already within the Google ecosystem. Additionally, Google Voice offers the option to port existing numbers, a feature TextMe lacks, requiring users to generate new numbers within the app. This could be a deciding factor for those looking to maintain continuity in their communication channels without the need to change numbers.

WhatsApp Business could serve as an alternative with multilingual support and advanced messaging tools, making it suitable for businesses needing organized communication.

Distinctive Privacy Concerns Noted

Addressing the privacy concerns between TextMe and Google Voice reveals significant differences in their approach to user safety.

TextMe offers users the flexibility of generating multiple phone numbers, which can enhance privacy by separating personal and business communications. However, this feature also introduces risks. The app's anonymity can lead to harassment and unwanted contact, as users have reported receiving unsolicited messages and calls. This raises significant privacy and safety concerns, contrasting with Google Voice's more regulated environment, which includes a robust verification process to mitigate such risks.

Google Voice's single-number assignment may initially seem less versatile, but it enhances security by reducing opportunities for privacy breaches. Moreover, TextMe's lack of support for emergency services like 911 adds a layer of risk, making it less reliable in urgent situations compared to Google Voice.

Additionally, allegations that TextMe sells user data to third parties, such as Facebook, exacerbate privacy concerns. This practice contrasts with Google Voice, which is generally perceived as more secure in handling user information.

Consequently, choosing between these apps requires careful consideration of one's privacy and security priorities. A similar issue is seen in apps like Telegram, which, despite its secure messaging features, faces scrutiny over privacy due to logging of IP addresses and metadata.

Compatible With Ios and Android

Compatibility is a key strength of the TextMe app, which seamlessly operates on both iOS and Android devices. This app provides a versatile solution for those needing multiple phone numbers on a single device, making it perfect for managing personal and business communications separately.

Whether you're using an iPhone or an Android tablet, TextMe is compatible, guaranteeing a consistent experience across different platforms.

TextMe's appeal extends beyond mere compatibility. It offers unlimited text and calls within the US, Canada, and over 100 other countries, for free. This feature is accessible on both iOS and Android, allowing users to maintain connectivity without worrying about additional costs.

The app's ability to send and receive multimedia messages, including images and videos, enhances communication by providing a richer messaging experience.

Navigating the app is straightforward, thanks to its user-friendly design tailored for both operating systems. This guarantees that users, regardless of their device, can easily access and utilize its features.

Fundamentally, TextMe stands out not only for its dual-platform compatibility but also for its extensive communication capabilities that cater to varied user needs across smartphones and tablets. Additionally, privacy concerns are common in apps like WeChat, highlighting the importance of secure communication in today's digital landscape.

Frequent Scam Accusations Mentioned

A significant issue with the TextMe app revolves around numerous scam accusations from users. Many users claim they've encountered unexpected charges, often pointing to misleading subscription practices. Reports suggest frequent price hikes where users expected monthly charges but were instead billed weekly, leading to unforeseen financial strain. This has understandably caused frustration and distrust, with many labeling the app a scam due to these financial discrepancies.

Additionally, users have expressed significant concerns about the app's reliability. There are accounts of abrupt service disruptions, such as being unable to receive messages or experiencing sudden account closures without any explanation. These issues not only raise questions about the app's legitimacy but also add to the overall negative sentiment.

Privacy concerns further exacerbate these worries. Allegations have surfaced accusing the app of selling user data to third parties, including Facebook. This potential breach of trust has only fueled the perception of the app as untrustworthy.

The combination of unexpected charges, reliability issues, and questionable privacy practices contribute to an overwhelmingly negative user sentiment, with many describing their experiences as fraudulent or akin to a scam. TextNow offers unlimited free calls and texts within the US and Canada, presenting a potential alternative for users seeking more reliable service. Understanding these factors is essential for potential users.

Avoid for Sensitive Transactions

When considering TextMe for handling sensitive transactions, several concerns come to light that might affect your decision.

The app's inability to support emergency calls and frequent user complaints about unresolved account closures could pose significant risks in critical situations.

Additionally, allegations of selling user data and unreliable customer support further suggest that TextMe mightn't be the best choice for tasks requiring secure and stable communication.

Furthermore, just like WARP, users have expressed privacy concerns due to potential data logging practices, adding another layer of caution for activities demanding confidentiality.

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While TextMe provides a convenient way to manage separate personal and business communications, it's crucial to remember that it shouldn't be used for sensitive transactions. The app offers a second phone number, allowing users to make calls and texts without revealing their primary contact information. This feature is particularly useful for maintaining privacy when interacting with new or unknown contacts. Additionally, TextMe enables users to send pictures and other media types, enhancing the versatility of communication through this second line.

However, despite these advantages, there are significant limitations when evaluating the app for sensitive transactions. TextMe is absolutely free, with the option for in-app purchases to enhance functionality. Yet, it doesn't support emergency calls, which is a critical factor to keep in mind. This limitation means that in situations requiring immediate and reliable communication, TextMe mightn't be the best choice.

Furthermore, while the app facilitates global communication with non-TextMe users, its free nature may not necessarily guarantee the same level of security as traditional phone services. For transactions requiring confidentiality and security, relying on a service with robust emergency capabilities and encryption standards is advisable.