10 Best In App Messaging APIs & Chat SDKs [2025]

Explore Best In-app Chat API

Losing revenue due to poor customer engagement and messy team communication? With instant communication, your customer may:

• Abandon purchases
• Lose trust on your brand 
• Turn to your competitors 

This might hugely impact your conversion rates, making it harder for your business to grow as it should. So, what’s the solution? Custom in-app chat.

If you already have your own business app or are planning to build one, you must include messaging features in it—NO COMPROMISE! And the easiest way to add them is, of course, using In-app chat API

What is In-app Chat API?

An In-app Chat API (Application Program Interface) is a tool that connects an app to a backend service and server infrastructure for enabling real-time messaging, instantly.

Writing codes manually to build a feature is an interesting task—but its time-consuming. This is the very reason—even giants like Reddit, Paytm, Uber, Netflix, Swiggy, & Adobe have enabled messaging on their platforms using a Chat API. No wonder; Chat API saved a lot of time and resources while driving huge engagement on their apps. 

If you are choosing this path and would like to find the right API for your platform, stick on. This guide will showcase the top 10 in-app chat APIs that can help your app drive unlimited engagement.

10 Best In-app Chat APIs And Messaging SDKs [2025]

The 10 best In App Chat APIs & Messaging SDKs are MirrorFly, Stream, Apphitect, Cometchat, TalkJS, PubNub, Twilio Agora, Cometchat & Zegocloud.

01. MirrorFly

Developer-friendly chat solution provider

MirrorFly is a CPaaS platform that offers a 100% customisable in-app chat API for Android, iOS, and the web. As a developer or business owner, you know that users these days just don’t look for a plain old messaging feature when using a business app. They expect personalisation—ultimately an experience of your brand in every feature they use. MirrorFly’s in-app chat API helps you do all the customisation you need, without any limitations! 

Over 43% of users would like to switch from a chat conversation to a call, given their situation or demands are critical. MirrorFly, a communication player with years of experience, makes this transition as smooth as possible.They provide everything that a customer would need to get in touch with your team (messaging, video calling, SIP/VoIP calling, activity feeds, and live streams). 

With MirrorFly backing your communication features, why would a customer even think about leaving your app? 

What are the key features of MirrorFly?

• Real-time messaging, voice, and video calling.
• Group chat, file sharing, and location sharing.
• On-premise and cloud-based solutions.
• SIP/VoIP Calling
• Activity Feeds
• Live streaming 
• Chatbot
• End-to-end encryption.

How much does the MirrorFly in-app chat API cost?

MirrorFly offers 2 different pricing models, depending on the type of deployment you choose:

Self-hosting (SaaP)

• Custom pricing—you may need to contact the Sales team to inquire. 

MirrorFly Cloud Hosting (SaaS)

Comes in 2 packages:

• Essentials: Starts at $399/month/5K MAU
• Premium: Starts at $999/month/5K MAU

Does MirrorFly offer a free trial?

MirrorFly generally offers demos and proof-of-concept options, but a standard free trial may vary. Contact their sales team to inquire.

How secure is MirrorFly Chat API? 

• MirrorFly uses AES 256 Encryption and OMEMO Encryption to secure all communication channels.
• Provides options to customize the security features as per business requirements
• Offers a TURN server for better routing through NAT for a secure connection across servers.
• Users can encrypt multimedia files using AES-256 with unique data encryption keys.
• Compatible with region-specific compliances like GDPR, HIPAA, and OWASP. 

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02. Stream.io

Best Chat messaging API provider

Stream’s real time chat SDK offers more feasible multi-platform native chat app development. With its advanced communication infrastructure developers can integrate advanced features in simple steps of integrations.

What are the key features of Getstream?

• Scalable chat and activity feeds.
• Rich messaging features, including reactions, threads, and moderation.
• SDKs for various platforms (iOS, Android, React, etc.).
• Moderation tools and profanity filtering.
• Supports live stream chat.

How much does the Getstream in-app chat API cost?

GetStream uses a tiered pricing model based on monthly active users (MAUs) and feature usage. They have various pricing packages, and you can find detailed information on their website.

Does Getstream offer a free trial?

Yes, GetStream offers a free trial to explore their features.

How secure is Getstream Chat API? 

• Offers AES encryption at rest and TLS (SSL) encryption in transit.
• GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC 2 compliant2. SOC 2 compliance means that third-party auditors found it to have the highest security standards.
• Supports end-to-end encryption via TLS and various authentication methods.

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03. Apphitect

Best white-label in app chat service

Apphitect is infamously known for its customisable instant messaging SDK offering features that help developers build a complete chat application. This on-premise chat service provider helps businesses build apps with enhanced cloud, social, and analytical solutions. Plus, you get complete ownership of data, giving you full control over the security and infrastructure. 

Another highlight of choosing Apphitect as your chat API provider is that you get to white-label your app with your own logo, colours, and brand elements without having to mention the platform to secure your brand experience. mise chat service provider helps businesses build apps with enhanced cloud, social and analytical solutions.

What are the key features of Apphitect?

• Real-time messaging, voice, and video capabilities.
• Customisable chat solutions.
• Group chat, file sharing, and location sharing.
• White-label SDKs for multiple platforms.
• On-premise solutions.

How much does the Apphitect in-app chat API cost?

Apphitect’s pricing is typically custom and depends on the specific requirements of the project. You’ll need to contact their sales team for a quote.

Does Apphitect offer a free trial?

No, Apphitect does not offer a free trial currently.

How secure is Apphitect Chat API? 

Apphitect focuses on customisable security with encryptions like AES & SSL, along with data protection policies like GDPR and HIPAA.

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04. TalkJS

Secure, reliable, and scalable Instant Messaging solution

TalkJS adds user-to-user chat features inside your app. The design and features offered by TalkJS are said to be compatible with any architectural framework making app development more easy and fast.

What are the key features of TalkJS?

• Easy integration with web and mobile applications
• Pre-built chat UI and developer SDKs
• Support for group chats, direct messaging, and notifications
• Customizable interface and feature set
• Optimized for customer support and marketplace chat solutions

How much does the TalkJS in-app chat API cost?

• Basic Plan: $279/month for 10,000 MAUs, additional MAUs at $0.04 each
• Growth Plan: Higher MAU allowance, higher price
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing, priority support

Does TalkJS offer a free trial?

Yes, TalkJS offers a free trial to explore their platform.

How secure is TalkJS Chat API? 

• Encryption with HTTPS
• Data protection in transit and at rest
• User verification 
• Regular audits of security policies and infrastructure
• Privacy-Focused Design

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05. Sendbird

Leading chat SDK provider

Founded in 2013, SendBird has emerged as one of the most trustworthy chat API providers in the market. Their chat features cover everything needed to build a healthy communication infrastructure. SendBird is one of the reliable providers, especially for startup businesses.

What are the key features of Sendbird?

• One-on-one messaging
• Group chats
• Open Channels
• Custom data transfers
• Rich media
• Spam flood protection
• Announcements

How much does the Sendbird in-app chat API cost?

Comes in 3 monthly packages:

• Developer: Free
• Starter 5K: $499
• Pro 5K: $599

Does Sendbird offer a free trial?

Yes, Sendbird offers a free trial to test their platform.

How secure is Sendbird Chat API? 

• Compliance-minded and meets SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA/HITECH, and GDPR security standards.
• Offers features like spam flood protection, file encryption, and moderation tools.
• Sendbird server authenticates API requests using API tokens. It’s crucial not to expose these tokens on the client side.

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06. PubNub

Feature-enriched in app messaging software provider

PubNub is an Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) company well-known for providing APIs for business communications. This provider builds in app messaging SDKs that are compatible with mobile platforms, real-time chat apps and IoT applications.

What are the key features of Pubnub?

• Scalable and reliable infrastructure
• Global data stream network
• Real-time data streaming and messaging
• Presence detection and data persistence
• SDKs available for multiple platforms

How much does the Pubnub in-app chat API cost?

• Free Plan: Up to 200 MAUs with basic features
• MAU-Based Pricing: Cost increases with higher number of active users
• Starter Plan: $49/month for up to 1,000 MAUs
• Scalable Plans: Multiple tiers for different user volume needs
• Customizable Pro Plans: Tailored pricing for larger user bases and specific requirements

Does Pubnub offer a free trial?

Yes, PubNub offers a free tier and trials.

How secure is Pubnub Chat API? 

• Authentication and encryption with TLS/SSL and AES
• Role-based access control (RBAC)
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA) support
• Biometric authentication capabilities

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07. Zegocloud

Zegocloud is a popular name when it comes to messaging APIs. You can build the most modern real-time chat experience while adorning your app with all the engaging messaging features. It’s performance is highly reliable, and the latency is too low for any delays or staggers in communication. 

The interface is designed for smooth navigation and is almost perfect visually. You can build your app on top of any platform—Web, Android, Flutter, React Native, and whatnot—and Zegocloud flexibly does its job without any hassle. 

What are the key features of Zegocloud?

• High-quality, low-latency voice, video, and chat communication
• SDKs available for platforms like Web, Android, iOS, Flutter, and React Native
• Customizable UI with rich messaging features
• Live streaming solutions
• Real-time communication for chat, voice, and video

How much does the Zegocloud in-app chat API cost?

• Based on MAU: Pricing is based on the number of monthly active users
• Free Trial: Most plans offer a trial period to test features
• Tiered Plans: Different pricing tiers based on usage volume and features
• Example: $1 for 10,000 MAUs (priced at $0.01 per 100 MAUs)

Does Zegocloud offer a free trial?

ZegoCloud offers a free trial and demo options.

How secure is Zegocloud Chat API? 

• User data protection
• Secure programming practices
• Strong encryption for communication
• Robust access controls
• Compliance with industry standards

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08. Cometchat

Most trusted in app Messaging by 50,000+ developers

CometChat delivers interactive instant messaging services, such as in app text messaging and voice and video call solutions, to business applications and websites. It is considered one of the budget-friendly SDK providers in the market.

What are the key features of Cometchat?

• Real-time chat, voice, and video calling
• Pre-built UI components and SDKs
• Group chat, private messaging, and file sharing
• Customizable features and integrations
• On-premise and cloud deployment options

How much does the Cometchat in-app chat API cost?

• Free Plan: Build (sandbox plan for testing and MVP creation)
• Growth Plan: $119/month for 500 MAUs
• Scale Plan: Custom pricing for advanced features
• Pro Plan: Variable pricing for up to 1,000 MAUs

Does Cometchat offer a free trial?

Yes, CometChat offers a free trial to explore their platform.

How secure is Cometchat Chat API? 

• SSL/TLS encryption for data in transit
• End-to-end encryption in specific configurations
• AES-256 bit encryption for strong security
• Single sign-on (SSO) authentication

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09. Agora

Highly scalable in app messaging provider

Agora is the leading secure instant messaging service provider. Their APIs and SDKs are enriched with features and compatible with privacy regulations. They are most loved by developers for their high scalability and fully customizable APIs. It is well suited for medium- and large-scale enterprises.

What are the key features of Agora?

• Real-time voice and video communication.
• Interactive live streaming and real-time messaging.
• SDKs for various platforms.
• Low-latency and high-quality communication.
• Cloud based.

How much does the Agora in-app chat API cost?

Comes in 4 different packages:

• Free: Free upto 500 users
• Starter: Starts at $349 + $0.05/MAU beyond 5K MAU
• Pro: Starting from $699 + $0.05/MAU beyond 10K MAU
• Enterprise: Custom (min. 100K MAU)

Does Agora offer a free trial?

Agora offers a free tier with usage limits, allowing developers to test their platform.

How secure is Agora Chat API?         

• Token-based authentication for user access
• Secure transmission via TLS and WSS protocols
• AES-128/256 encryption for built-in security
• Network-level protection with SD-RTN

What is the price of Agora?

• Free and month-on-month subscriptions

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10. Twilio

Best Messaging Serivce with programmable solutions

Twilio is the developer friendly real-time chat SDK for website, mobile and any cross platform integration. Developers prefer this platform for omni-channel communication features. The conversational API lets users start in app chat then continue it on WhatsApp. 

What are the key features of Twilio?

• Programmable chat, voice, and SMS APIs
• Highly customizable communication solutions
• SDKs available for multiple platforms
• Scalable and reliable infrastructure
• Wide range of communication tools

How much does the Twilio in-app chat API cost?

• Pay-Per-Use Model: Charges based on messages sent and received
• Variable Costs: Depends on active users and messaging channels used

Does Twilio offer a free trial?

Yes, Twilio offers a free trial with credits to test their services.

How secure is Twilio Chat API? 

• Granular access control mechanisms
• Vendor risk and security assessments
• Message redaction capabilities
• Global allowlists for phone number management

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Benefits Of Using In-app Chat API In Mobile & Web App Development

No one really wants to sit around for months to code and create a feature while there is an instant solution already available. However, the speed of development is not the only advantage of using a chat API. You’ve got more:

1. Customizable Features & Functionalities 

Let me be more cautious here while mentioning this: Not every chat API in the market is customisable, but the best ones are. APIs offered by MirrorFly and Apphitect make it possible to build personalised chat experiences with their super-flexible solution. 

2. You can white-label it 

No, you don’t need to mention the provider’s name anywhere on your app. Chat APIs you purchase from some of the best communication solution providers out there will allow you to white-label the entire app, without affecting the brand experience you deliver. 

3. Data Ownership 

Although you’ll build the chat system using a third-party API, every piece of data across the app will be completely yours to handle. Neither the API provider nor any other third party will have access to even the bits of your app data. 

4. Custom Security

While you build a complete chat infrastructure into an app backed by an external API, you need not worry about how secure your app would be after the implementation. 

Remember, the chat API itself comes with in-built security features like AES and SSL, along with region-specific compliances like GDPR, OWASP, and HIPAA. Above this, you’ll also be able to add or customise any security feature that you feel is best for your platform. 

5. Flexibility of Hosting 

Worried if the provider will force you to choose their hosting? 

Platforms like MirrorFly and Rocket.chat ease the situation, letting you choose the deployment you need—you can self-manage the entire platform on your on-premise servers, data centers, or private cloud. Or, you can go with the provider’s cloud solutions if you want them to monitor and manage the performance and security with a dedicated team. 

Alright, these are some of the noteworthy advantages of choosing a chat API for your platform. Besides, you’ll also enjoy other perks like hiring a dedicated team to take care of the entire integration or adding advanced communication features like SIP/VoIP, activity feeds, and chatbots. Overall, its worth the investment! 

MirrorFly: The Best In-app Chat API For Your Web & Mobile Apps 

As you’ve read, there are so many APIs across the market, and yes, choosing the perfect one can sometimes be challenging. But we’d recommend you go with MirrorFly for obvious reasons: unlimited customisation, data ownership, full source code access, and self-hosting capabilities. 

You’re serious about your customer experience, and so is the platform, carefully curated a solution that’s helping 500+ businesses around the world drive millions of conversations, in turn elevating the number of business conversions. 

Sounds good? Check it out all by yourself now – Visit MirrorFly’s official website or talk to an expert today! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)