As mobile technology becomes that much more popular, mobile messaging apps allow us to keep in touch with each other like never before. I have used almost every messaging app on the planet, so I was skeptical when my friends told me that Google Allo was something special and I refused to download it at first. But after hearing so many great stories seeing an overabundance of promising reviews online, I had to try it for myself, and it took a while for me to discover and enjoy all of the features that it has to offer.

My Friends Don't Need the App

One of my favorite things about the app is that my friends don't need to have it installed to communicate with me. If I want to message someone who has an iPhone, Google will send the message as a standard text.

My friend will then have the option to download the app, or they can simply reply to the text. Anyone who has an Android phone will get a notification that is similar to the app, and they will also be given the option to either reply to the message or to install Allo.

Google Assistant

Allo is not just a messaging app. It also comes with the Google Assistant, which will answer any questions that you might have. I thought it would be nothing more than a search engine, but I was wrong. Google Assistant will provide you with information about the weather, upcoming flights and more. I wouldn't say it's on par with the Amazon Echo (yet), but it's clear that Allo has the potential to continue expanding its knowledge base to become way more useful over time.

Although most messaging apps require you to leave your conversation to perform a search, you can invite the Google Assistant to join your chat sessions so that you and your friends can plan your day together. Whether you want to go to the beach or to see a movie, Allo will make your job that much easier.

Privacy Concerns

Although Google Allo has many great features, it does have a downside that I need to bring up. The only thing that bothers me about this great app is the lack of privacy. Allo needs to read and record each message that you send when you want it to suggest replies and locations of interest, but that is not all.

Those who use Allo should know that the app does not encrypt their messages, so anyone could easily intercept the messages that you send to your friends and family. If you avoid sending sensitive information, you can still enjoy the many features of Allo.