How to Build a Strong Community: In-App Chat vs. Third-Party Messaging
Blog post from Stream
In-app chat is a compelling feature for mobile applications, driving user engagement, retention, and community building, while offering the flexibility and control over user experience that third-party messaging apps lack. By integrating real-time messaging within an app, developers can enhance the user experience with familiar chat interfaces, media sharing, and customization options, all while collecting valuable user data for insights and improvements. Though the development process can be complex, using ready-made chat SDKs can simplify implementation and maintenance. In contrast, third-party messaging apps offer free, internet-based communication with minimal development but lack the ability to gather analytics, ensure consistent security, and reinforce brand presence. As such, industries ranging from delivery to education and healthcare can benefit from the seamless, integrated, and personalized communication channels that in-app chat provides, ensuring a more "human" interaction and a robust community feel within the app environment.