Learn how to build a communication app like Rakuten Viber Messenger in 2025. Explore features, alternatives, tech stack, monetization, and marketing strategies.
Communication apps have become an essential part of daily life, enabling users to stay connected through instant messaging, voice, and video calls. Rakuten Viber Messenger is one of the most popular platforms, offering real-time communication, multimedia sharing, and end-to-end encryption.
In 2025, the demand for messaging apps is skyrocketing due to remote work, global connectivity, gaming communities, and social engagement. Businesses and developers see a huge opportunity to create innovative apps that blend messaging, security, and multimedia features.
This guide explores how to build a communication app like Viber, covering features, development process, monetization strategies, technology stack, UI/UX, top alternatives, security, marketing, and future trends.
Why Develop a Messaging App in 2025?
Messaging apps continue to dominate mobile usage globally. According to industry reports, billions of users rely on apps like WhatsApp, Viber, and Telegram for daily communication, business coordination, and entertainment. Key reasons to build a Viber-like app include:
- Global demand: Messaging apps are used by billions worldwide, offering a huge audience.
- Remote work & social connectivity: Teams, students, and friends need reliable, real-time communication.
- Revenue opportunities: Monetization through subscriptions, ads, in-app purchases, and enterprise solutions.
- Niche market potential: You can target gaming communities, professionals, privacy-conscious users, or regional markets.
- Innovation space: Integration with AI, AR, VR, and blockchain opens new possibilities.
Essential Features of a Viber-Like App
To stand out, your communication app must offer core and advanced features that improve user engagement, security, and convenience.
1. User Registration and Profiles
- Sign up using phone number, email, or social media accounts
- Profile setup with photo, display name, and status messages
- Account verification using OTP or email
2. Instant Messaging
- Real-time chat with typing indicators and read receipts
- Emojis, stickers, GIFs, and multimedia attachments
- Group chat support with moderation tools
3. Voice and Video Calling
- High-quality VoIP voice calls
- One-on-one and group video calling
- Low latency and noise cancellation
4. Multimedia Sharing
- Send images, videos, audio files, and documents
- Cloud-based storage for large files
- File download and preview options
5. End-to-End Encryption
- Secure messaging for private conversations
- Encryption ensures data safety from hackers
- Protects sensitive business and personal communication
6. Push Notifications
- Real-time alerts for messages, calls, and mentions
- Customizable notification settings
- Helps increase user engagement and retention
7. Cross-Platform Support
- Apps for iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and web browsers
- Synchronization of messages across devices
- Ensures users can stay connected anywhere
8. Stickers, GIFs, and Customization
- Fun interactive features to enhance messaging experience
- Premium stickers or paid customization packs for monetization
- Support for animated emojis and memes
9. Group Chats and Communities
- Private and public groups
- Admin features: mute, remove members, moderate content
- Community tools: polls, event announcements, and pinned messages
10. AI Features (Optional but Trending)
- Chatbots for automation
- Smart reply suggestions
- AI-driven spam and fraud detection
11. File Storage and Cloud Integration
- Integration with Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive
- Users can share and access files without leaving the app
- Important for business and professional users
Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Viber-Like App
Market Research
- Analyze competitors like Viber, WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and LINE
- Identify user pain points and feature gaps
- Study monetization models, engagement patterns, and security features
Define MVP (Minimum Viable Product)
- Start with essential features: messaging, voice/video calls, registration
- Avoid unnecessary complexity initially to reduce development cost and time
- MVP helps test the market and gather feedback
Choose Technology Stack
Frontend:
- Flutter or React Native for cross-platform development
- Native: Kotlin (Android) and Swift (iOS)
Backend:
- Node.js, Python, or Java
- Real-time database: Firebase, MongoDB, or PostgreSQL
- Server hosting: AWS, Google Cloud, Azure
Real-Time Communication:
- WebRTC for voice/video calls
- Socket.io for instant messaging
Security Protocols:
- End-to-end encryption
- SSL/TLS for secure connections
UI/UX Design
- Minimalistic, clean interface for easy navigation
- Separate tabs for chat, calls, and settings
- Customization options: themes, fonts, and sticker packs
- Focus on ease-of-use for both casual and business users
Development & Testing
- Agile methodology for iterative development
- Testing: functional, performance, security, cross-platform compatibility
- Beta launch for a controlled user group to gather feedback
Launch and Deployment
- Publish on Google Play, Apple App Store, and web platform
- Monitor performance, crash reports, and analytics
- Regular updates for security patches and feature enhancements
Monetization Strategies
Creating a messaging app is not just about functionality; it’s also about revenue generation.
- Freemium Model: Free basic features; premium subscriptions unlock additional functionality.
- In-App Purchases: Paid sticker packs, emojis, themes, and special features.
- Advertisements: Display ads or sponsored messages for free users.
- Enterprise Plans: Offer communication solutions for businesses and teams.
- Affiliate Marketing: Partner with services like e-commerce or online platforms for promotions.
Top Alternatives to Rakuten Viber Messenger
While building your app, it’s important to understand competitors. Here are some top alternatives in 2025:
| App Name | Key Features | Platform |
| Text, voice/video calls, group chat, encryption | iOS, Android, Web | |
| Telegram | Large group support, bots, file sharing, security | iOS, Android, Web |
| Signal | End-to-end encryption, secure messaging | iOS, Android |
| Line | Stickers, group chat, payments, multimedia | iOS, Android |
| KakaoTalk | Multimedia, group chats, business integration | iOS, Android |
| Messaging, social media, payments | iOS, Android | |
| Discord | Gaming-focused, voice channels, servers | iOS, Android, Web |
| IMO | Lightweight, mobile-friendly, video calls | iOS, Android |
Analyzing these apps will help you identify unique selling points (USPs) for your app and stand out in a competitive market.
Security Considerations
Security is critical for user trust and app adoption:
- End-to-end encryption for messages, calls, and media
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) for accounts
- GDPR compliance and privacy regulation adherence
- Regular vulnerability testing and updates
- Secure server hosting and encrypted database storage
Challenges in Developing a Communication App Like Rakuten Viber Messenger
Some key challenges include:
- High development cost for cross-platform real-time features
- Scalability: Handling millions of users and messages
- Latency in voice/video calls
- User retention and engagement
- Compliance with global privacy regulations
Overcoming these challenges requires robust architecture, cloud infrastructure, and user-centered design.
Marketing Your Messaging App
Launching an app is not enough; marketing is crucial:
- App Store Optimization (ASO): Optimize title, keywords, and description.
- Social Media Promotion: Target communities on Instagram, YouTube, and Reddit.
- Influencer Marketing: Collaborate with tech reviewers and influencers.
- Referral Programs: Encourage users to invite friends.
- Content Marketing: Blogs, tutorials, and guides about your app features.
Future Trends for Messaging Apps in 2025
- AI-powered chatbots for automation
- AR/VR communication for immersive experiences
- Blockchain integration for secure messaging
- Cross-platform integration with productivity tools
- Privacy-first apps with decentralized networks
Adopting these trends early ensures your app remains competitive and innovative.
Conclusion
Building a communication app like Rakuten Viber Messenger in 2025 requires careful planning, modern technology, and user-focused design. By focusing on real-time messaging, multimedia sharing, voice/video calls, security, and monetization, you can develop an app that attracts millions of users globally.
Analyzing alternatives like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and Line, leveraging AI and privacy features, and implementing robust marketing strategies will help your app stand out in a competitive market.
With a strong strategy, your messaging app can deliver seamless communication, secure data, and engaging user experience, meeting the growing demand for instant messaging in 2025 and beyond.
Related Blog: Discord Alternatives
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