WhatsApp users reconsidering its use; Telegram is top alternative: Study

Most users of WhatsApp are reconsidering usage of the instant mobile messaging app and are looking for its alternative following policy changes proposed by the Facebook group firm, according to a study.

The study, conducted by CyberMedia Research (CMR) covering 1,500 WhatsApp users, found that 79 per cent of the instant messaging app users (respondents) are reconsidering using it, with 28 per cent of those even planning to leave WhatsApp after the implementation of its new policy in May 2021.

“For consumers, WhatsApp was their own, free and intimate messaging platform. As WhatsApp eventually moves into a much closer integration with the Facebook ecosystem from hereon, it risks an erosion in brand trust and brand loyalty both key determinants for enduring competitive market advantage,” CMR Industry Intelligence Group Head Prabhu Ram said in a statement.