KakaoTalk

Enhance Your KakaoTalk:

KakaoTalk is a downloadable software application for mobile devices that allows its users to send and receive free messages and voice calls. The application does not require its users to register for a username, instead requiring only a phone number to get started (although the service does use an ID system called KakaoTalk ID). KakaoTalk is currently available for all of the major mobile operating systems, including Windows Phone, iOS (including iPhone, iPod touch and iPad), Android, and BlackBerry.

One of the defining features of KakaoTalk is its Plus Friend feature, which allows KakaoTalk messenger users to receive special content and updates from their favorite artists by adding them as a Plus Friend. This feature also enables users to participate in events for their Plus Friends. The KakaoTalk service also allows its users to export their messages and save them for future reference if the user so desires.

The South Korean application also supports various add-ons including KakaoStory, which provides a profile page of sorts where users can post photos, messages, and receive birthday greetings; and various games, along with additional add-ons to increase functionality.

Like many other VoIP services, KakaoTalk works over both Wi-Fi networks and 3G mobile networks, allowing users to stay in touch with friends and family whether they’re a mile or an ocean away.

As of August 2012, KakaoTalk had 57 million registered users and grew to over 110 million users as of October 2013 and then jumped to 120 million by mid-December 2013.