With mobile carriers charging anywhere from $20 to $30 a month. Many free apps also offer additional perks like group chat and video. Here are several options that will save you money and offer you more than just your basic text.

1.IMO
More than just your basic free texting service, imo allows you to message friends and family on most instant messaging networks — Facebook Chat, Google Talk, Skype and AIM — by allowing you to sync your accounts. It also allows users to send emoticons, photos, video, and voice messages for free. Noted features include group chats, push notifications, and voice calling, which Android and iOS users can utilize without using plan minutes.
Available on: iPhone, iPad, Android, BlackBerry, and Nokia.