Android beta app allows SMS via Chrome browsers

A promising app currently under development allows users of Google's Android smartphones to send and receive text messages from the comfort of their desktop or laptop computers running Google's Chrome browser. The "Texty" app, now in private beta testing, promises to be a boon to Android smartphone users wary of small keyboards and auto-correct features, according to an article on tech site LifeHacker. "Texty saves you from your tiny phone keyboard by sending SMS messages from Chrome. What's awesome is that it does it through your actual handset, so the texts come right from your actual number and you can access them on your phone later," it said. It also noted that Texty can be linked to a user's Google Contacts database, which lets the user type in contacts' names instead of their phone numbers. While Texty is still in private beta mode, LifeHacker said it has some 2,000 codes to give out to readers that want to give the app a try. People can also sign up via the Texty developer's page, and can follow updates on the app via Facebook and Twitter. Texty requires Android 2.2 or above; a working and active data connection; and "Background Data" enabled on the phone. Also, the phone must have its battery charged since all texts are routed through the phone. As of April 24, the beta app can send long messages of more than 160 characters. — TJD, GMA News