So Hangouts app basically doesn't work for me anymore on my Nexus 5. I get error messages all the time saying it can't download the message. I've run across other people having same issue, but no one has a fix, and Google won't even offer tech support for its own app.
So, I think my only option is to go with a different default app for texting. What are the best ones out there? Anyone with an opinion?
I tried handcent and textra. I like textra better. Insert Soulfly *Trust me * here
I had looked at Android texting options review on lifehacker which lead me to Textra. I wanted something that was:
- good for group texts
- had pop-up from the lockscreen when you got a good text
- didn't lock you into a closed network, like imessage, even if this meant paying for texts. It's possible some of these services allow you to opt out, but after the cluster of imessage, I don't even want to chance it.
I first tried Handcent which was good on the last 2 items above. It's very, very customizable, but even after all the customizations, it still looks a little dated. It was a little bit better on being able to reply to texts without unlocking the phone, but anytime I got a group text, it was totally confusing on who was replying to what. My wife still uses handcent.
Textra solves the group text problem and is just good all around at texting. I get a quick pop-up on the lock screen if I get a text and it's not very intrusive. I always know when I have a text waiting either through the LED light or notifications bar. It's fast, light, looks good and has just the right amount of customizations for my needs.
I noted that someone recommended 8sms, but everytime I went to look for screenshots or what not about the app, the information was light. I don't have experience with it.
Great thing about Android is that trying out a new texting app is very easy. I was surprised just how easy it was to switch from Hangouts to Handcent and then Handcent to Textra. Smooth.