Why is HIKE not on Play Store ?
Author : Viknesh Ravichandran
While netizens are looking for the best alternative for WhatsApp given its updated privacy concerns, Kavin Bharti Mittal’s Indian origin Messenger Hike has given up on competing with other players to take the lead spot. Let’s see what happened to Hike.
Why is Hike no longer on Play Store?
When Hike - Made with Love in India was launched, it was a proud moment for every Indian. Though it was undoubtedly hard for people to let go of WhatsApp even though they were presented with homemade Hike, it was expected to be received with open arms when WhatsApp began losing its user's trust. Once again Hike was let down when Signal and Telegram became the talk of the town.
The CEO of Hike, Kavin Bharti Mittal confirmed on Twitter that Hike would be officially shutting down its messaging app. But this is not the end for Hike though they have let go of their messaging app, they have introduced two new apps - Vibe by Hike and Rush by Hike.
Sharp Message from the Mittal
“However, while other platforms have gotten a lot of benefit out of this moment, Mittal also posted that India won't have its own messenger unless India bans Western companies.”
Vibe by Hike and Rush by Hike
As per Mittal’s tweets, the brand is planning to replace Hike Messenger with Vibe and Rush. Both these applications will be available for download on both Android and iOS platforms. Also, the HikeMoji will be available for use on both Vibe and Rush.
"Vibe by Hike" facilitates the users to meet and interact with the funniest people present over the web with high safety.
Hike guarantees safety by filtering out creeps and fake profiles.
It is meant for open-minded people who are excited to be a part of a community that treats people with kindness and respect.
To join this community, the customer needs to sign up for an application process to ensure that their intentions of joining are well and that they will add value to the Vibe community. This app is an approval-only based community.
Looking at the promo pictures and their tagline ', Vibe by Hike seems like a fun and vibrant app. It’s tagline states “Meet the funniest people online. Safely.” It claims to allow the user to meet the funniest people on the Internet.
“Rush by Hike” is an online gaming platform where users can win
real money.
Users will have a chance to pick a HikeMoji, that resonates with their personality and style choices, this move by Hike is to ensure the safety and privacy of the users. , but also adds to the fun of gameplay through innovative self-expression.
Conclusion
The brand had pre-planned to replace Hike Messenger with Vibe and Rush. Both these applications are available for download on both Android and iOS platforms. Also, following the shut-down of the Hike Messenger application, the HikeMoji will be available for use on both Vibe and Rush. It is not yet confirmed that both the applications will have end-to-end encryption or other unique features.
What is your take on Mr Mittal's statement about banning international apps?
Where do you think Hike will be heading with Rush and Vibe with this so-called road not taken apps?
Why do you think Hike failed to take off in India?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or on our LinkedIn page.
Till then Ciao ;)