Viber for Android

Quick summary

Viber lets Android users make voice and video calls and exchange messages over 3G or Wi‑Fi without per‑call charges when communicating with other Viber users. It bundles messaging, media sharing, and synchronization with desktop apps to create a flexible cross‑device chat experience.

Primary capabilities

• Syncs conversations and call activity with desktop apps for Windows and macOS, so you can pick up a conversation or transfer an ongoing call to your computer.
• Make free audio and video conversations with other Viber users over Wi‑Fi or mobile data.
• Send and receive text messages at no extra cost when messaging people who have the app.
• Share photos and short videos directly within chats to enrich your conversations.
• Use stickers and emoticons to add personality to messages.
• Share your current location with a chat partner when you want to show where you are.
• Personalize the chat window background using an existing photo or a newly captured image (note: this change is for your view only).
• Use the Hold & Talk (push‑to‑talk) feature to send instant voice snippets in real time.
• Run the app on both tablets and phones at the same time for continuity across devices.
• Transfer live calls from your handset to the desktop client when needed.
• Contacts from your phone are imported automatically and a Viber icon marks who already has the app.
• If a contact doesn’t use Viber, you can still place a call through the app, but it will be billed like a normal cellular call.
• Receive push alerts so you don’t miss incoming messages or calls.

How to get started

1. Install Viber on your device and register using your mobile phone number.
2. You’ll receive an SMS with a verification code; enter that code in the app to activate your account.
3. Once verified, the app imports your phone contacts and flags which ones already use Viber.
4. Add new contacts either by searching for their Viber username or by scanning a QR code presented on their screen.
5. Tap a contact’s name to start a call or open a chat window to send messages and media.

Practical notes and limitations

• The app’s layout is straightforward and easy to navigate, with clear icons and menus.
• Call audio quality is generally very good and competes well with other VoIP services, though it may not always match the clarity of a cellular call depending on network conditions.
• Custom chat backgrounds are local to your device and won’t appear on the recipient’s screen.
• If you call someone who hasn’t installed Viber, standard carrier rates apply for that connection.

Final thoughts

Viber provides a polished, user‑friendly way to stay in touch via voice, video, and text without incurring extra fees when both parties use the app. It’s versatile, fun to use, and convenient for switching between mobile and desktop environments.