Viber review
A versatile free messenger with strong chat privacy but unencrypted backups.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Viber is a freemium messaging and calling app for people who communicate across mobile and desktop devices. Its free service covers messaging and calls between Viber users, with one-to-one chats, group chats, voice and video calls, communities, channels, stickers, and GIFs. A phone number is required for an account, and conversations synchronize across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. It is a practical fit for mainstream personal communication where broad device coverage matters.
Privacy features are substantial for everyday chats. One-to-one and group chats use end-to-end encryption, while disappearing messages add automatic message removal and hidden chats can be protected with a PIN. The main privacy limitation is that backups are unencrypted, so users who need encrypted backups should consider an alternative with that capability. Viber's source status is also unverified, which may matter to buyers who prioritize independently verifiable software transparency.
The free tier provides the core messaging and calling experience, while Viber Out and Viber Plus are paid offerings. Viber Out pricing varies by destination and region, and Viber Plus does not have a fixed price shown in the available plan details. The product supports group chats of up to 250 participants and includes desktop apps alongside mobile apps. Choose Viber for a familiar, cross-device messenger with private chats and calling; choose another service if encrypted backups or a verified source status are essential requirements.
Viber pros and cons
- Where it wins
- End-to-end encryption for one-to-one and group chats
- Apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android
- Disappearing messages, hidden chats, and synchronized conversations
- Where it doesn't
- Backups are not encrypted
- A phone number is required for an account
- Group chats support up to 250 participants
Viber fact sheet, pricing and score →
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