As we seek to answer the question of why do people use WhatsApp, this messaging app appears to provide a set of features that address different types of communication needs.
Nevertheless, like any tool used on the web, parents need to ensure that they know the advantages and disadvantages that come with using this app.
This article will explain why WhatsApp has become so popular, and offer parents useable tips to help them navigate their children’s digital world.
WhatsApp features introduction
WhatsApp has won the hearts of millions because of the vast number of utilities that are embedded in it.
It is a simple yet powerful messaging tool that lets you send texts as well as photos, videos, and voice recordings.
The app is mostly used when having random, casual communication with friends and relatives.
But apart from simple texting, WhatsApp has additional functions that help improve its functionality.
- Voice and video Calls. It offers high-quality voice and video, group and individual calls replacing traditional phone calls.
- Group chats. Users can use group chats when speaking to many people. It is suitable when organizing a party, completing a task, or merely discussing topics with friends.
- Status updates. Like Instagram stories, you get to post short-time stories that will keep your contacts updated regarding your actions and opinions.
- Document sharing. You can instantly share any number of documents, PDFs, images, videos, and other files right within the app.
- End-to-end encryption. WhatsApp guarantees data protection through end-to-end encryption. This means that only the sender and the recipient can view the messages.
These elements, in conjunction with the simplicity of running the application and compatibility with various platforms, have led to the increased popularity of the application.
Benefits of using WhatsApp
There are lots of things that make people prefer to use WhatsApp over other communication technologies in the world today. Here is a list of some of these reasons.
1. Free and accessible:
WhatsApp is easily downloadable from the App Store and is free to use once installed. This makes it convenient for all classes of users.
2. Cross-platform compatibility:
It can be used on whatever platform including mobile, tablets, and computers. So one can stay connected regardless of the device.
3. End-to-end encryption:
The nature of communication on WhatsApp is secure. The application uses end to end encryption to prevent the messages from being accessed by unauthorized persons.
4. Real-time communication:
It supports text, voice and video calls to help people have live communication with friends and families.
5. Group chats:
You can create group chats to help you interact with several users at the same time. This is perfect for families, work colleagues or friends.
6. Media sharing:
It lets you effortlessly send/receive photos, videos, docs, and other forms of media with a click of a button.
7. User-friendly interface:
WhatsApp has simple graphics and layout. One does not have to be very computer literate to be able to find ways around the application.
These benefits, coupled with the integration of WhatsApp into everyday communication, makes this app well-preferred by users of all ages and cultures.
WhatsApp vs. other Messaging apps
Below is a comparison between WhatsApp with some other similar apps that include; Telegram, Signal, and Facebook Messenger. The table outlines the special offers each has for its clients.
| Feature | Telegram | Signal | Facebook Messenger | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use Base | Over 2 billion users | Over 700 million users | Over 40 million users | Over 1.3 billion users |
| End-to-End Encryption | Yes, for all messages | Yes, but only for Secret Chats | Yes, for all messages | No, but offers some encryption features |
| Group Chat Capacity | Up to 1024 members | Up to 200000 members | Up to 1000 members | Up to 50 members |
| File Sharing Limit | Up to 2 GB | Up to 4 GB (with Premium) | Up to 100 MB | Up to 25 MB |
| Voice/Video Calls | Up to 32 participants | No limit on call participants | High-quality calls with privacy features | Supports large group calls |
| Customization Options | Limited customization | Extensive (themes, bots) | Limited customization | Extensive with stickers and games |
| Secret Chats | Not available | Available with self-destruct timers | Available with self-destruct timers | Not available |
| Status Updates | Yes | No direct equivalent | No | Yes |
| Cloud Storage | Limited (requires phone connection) | Yes (cloud-based storage) | No (local storage only) | Yes (cloud-based storage) |
| Bots and Automation | Limited support | Extensive support | Not Available | Limited suppor |
| Cross-Platform | Requires phone | Independent | Requires phone | Independent |
| Access | connection for desktop use | access on multiple devices | connection for desktop use | access on multiple devices |
Each of these apps fulfils diverse user requirements. Signal comes off as a genuinely secure app, whereas Telegram and Facebook are both rich in features.
WhatsApp is particularly remarkable for its commitment to user privacy as well as its simple, accessible design.
Why do people like teenagers want to use WhatsApp?
WhatsApp is now considered to be an indispensable application for teenagers with numerous reasons to support it.
- Instant connectivity. Adolescents want to be connected to their peers all the time. WhatsApp enables them to chat 24/7 and send messages, pictures, and videos directly.
- Group chats. Group chats serve social functions where teens receive messages, make plans, share funny memes, or discuss common issues with friends.
- Privacy and control. WhatsApp has end-to-end encryption which makes it possible for people to privately talk to each other. This frees the teen to talk without being monitored.
- Multimedia sharing. Sharing photos, videos, and voice messages improves social relationships and personal communication.
- Voice and video calls. Voice and video calls are another feature through which teens call their friends and family, especially if they live far away.
- Status updates. Teens use the site to post messages that are only visible for a short period of time. This is to let friends know what they are up to and what they are thinking.
Potential risks
Despite the numerous advantages afforded by the program, parents are advised to consider the dangers associated with its use carefully.
- Cyberbullying. Cyberbullies may be more aggressive since the app gives them a disguise, resulting in sinister effects on victims.
- Privacy concerns. Although the application features end-to-end encryption, there is still the risk of children sharing sensitive information with the wrong people.
- Addiction. WhatsApp, if used frequently, can be addictive and have negative effects on the personalities involved.
- Distraction. Notifications and the need to respond impact studying and any other important task that a person has.
Knowing why adolescents rely on WhatsApp can help parents help them make the proper choice when communicating on social networks.
How to manage WhatsApp usage for kids
Parents need to keep children safe online while allowing them the freedom to interact with their friends.
Here are some tips that may be of great help in the management of your child’s use of WhatsApp.
Open communication
– Talk about online safety. Talk to your children about the possible dangers of communicating online, including cyberbullying and on-line predators.
– Set clear expectations. Set healthy use of WhatsApp policies, including the kind of content to share, reasonable use of the application, and proper online etiquette.
– Encourage open dialogue. Let your child feel free to talk to you about anything they encounter, see, worry about, or question in cyberspace.
Active monitoring
- Keep track of their activity now and then. Once in a while check your child’s WhatsApp messages, contacts and groups, to make sure they are not misusing the app.
- Encourage privacy settings. Teach your child how to set high privacy standards so that others cannot view your child’s status or last seen.
- Be aware of group chats. Supervise group discussions in order to maintain the group as friendly and polite.
Teach about digital citizenship
– Teach critical thinking. And teach your child how to critical analyze information that he or she receives online. This is in order to determine whether it is a scam or not.
– Promote empathy. Explain to your child how important it is not to offend other people when communicating on the internet.
– Teach responsible sharing. Describe what must be done to safeguard personal information and why it is dangerous to reveal details on the Internet.
Take advantage of parent control features
FlashGet Kids is one of the most powerful parental control apps through which parents can easily control or monitor their children’s use of WhatsApp.
It has features that enable you to track and control your child’s WhatsApp activities. Here is how FlashGet Kids can assist you in managing your kid’s use of WhatsApp.
- Screen time limits. To reduce the time spent on the application, it’s possible to set daily or weekly usage limits on WhatsApp.
- App blocking. You can block WhatsApp or any other app that you no longer want your child to access.
- App notifications. It’s possible to snoop on incoming and outgoing messages and notifications. This makes you aware of your child’s online activities.
- Remote monitoring. Take advantage of features such as the camera or screen mirroring to monitor your child’s device use in secret.
With efficient parental control features and constant education, you can teach your child how to use WhatsApp responsibly.
Final words
WhatsApp’s many functions and emphasis on the privacy of its users, makes it one of the most used messengers worldwide.
However, it is important for parents to know why people use WhatsApp in order to keep up with the trends in the world we live in.
Techniques such as using parental controls like FlashGet Kids allow children to be responsible while using communication tools like WhatsApp.
With well-protection and monitored usage of the Internet, you get to keep your children safe from different dangers online.
