The same year also saw the implementation of support for chatbots, allowing anyone to build in-app bots with which users can converse to receive a variety of services - anything from weather forecasts to diet support to entertainment recommendations. In 2016, Viber and Western Union collaborated to offer users cross-border money transfer capabilities. The ability to delete and edit sent messages - another feature we take for granted today - also launched several years before other major messaging platforms. In 2016, Viber became one of the first major messaging apps to implement end-to-end encryption for all users by default, turning it into a beacon of privacy and security during a turbulent time for the industry. In 2021, Viber brought augmented reality (AR) Lenses to its app through a partnership with Snap Inc. Users were soon able to make video calls, call regular phone lines and send messages with quirky stickers - a fun feature that was largely unheard of in many markets in 2013. Over the past 13 years, the team has continued to build new features into the app to serve its loyal customers in more aspects of everyday life. It quickly made a name for itself as early smartphone users realized the true potential of app-based mobile communication. The app was originally built in 2010 by a group of friends looking for an affordable alternative to expensive international calls (one of the founders was in a long-distance relationship). Viber has long been at the forefront of functionality in the messaging app arena. Currently, the feature is live in Greece and Germany where users can activate their Viber wallets and start making payments.

The new service is being rolled out in the EU, with plans to expand into more countries and currencies on the horizon. Last year, Rakuten Viber announced a new feature that promises to make the app an even more integral part of everyday life: Free, seamless payments from inside regular chats - as easy as sending a message. For close to a billion users around the globe, Rakuten Viber is a key tool for keeping in touch with friends and family.

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