A multifaceted text, video, and voice-messaging app that also integrates social media elements such as games and group chats.
Why it's popular: Teens are drawn to LINE not only because it's a bit of an all-in-one mobile hub but also because it offers a lot of of teen-friendly elements, such as a selection of over 10,000 stickers and wacky emoticons, as well as LINE Play, an avatar-based social network. The free texting and video calls don't hurt, either.
What parents need to know:
- LINE includes a feature called "Hidden Chat," which is similar to Snapchat's disappearing messages but with a few more options. Users can choose how long they'd like their message to last before it vanishes: two seconds or up to a week. These messages also can include location information, pics, and video. Though LINE states that its servers are secure, as with Snapchat you can't be too careful.
- In-app purchases are a big part of the LINE experience: Want to use that set of super-cute cat emojis? It'll cost you. Paying for games and other features within LINE can add up, and to keep communication free, the recipient also must be a LINE user, meaning your friends have to sign up as well.
- LINE's terms of use state that "minors" need parental permission before signing up, but there's no process in place to monitor or track that information.
