The Android app enables users to message individuals or groups of up to 10 other people, as pulled from Facebook Chat or their phone's address book. Users can also send text messages to Twitter or any other mobile number. Integration with additional chat services is slated for future release -- the iPhone app, for instance, includes Google Talk integration.
HeyWire for Android features a home screen widget for more immediate access to messages, and offers up text message alerts via the device's notification bar. The app also allows for voice and Swype Keyboard message composition, so long as the user's Android device supports those features.
“We’re on a mission to make staying connected with friends and family easy, regardless of location, messaging platform or device,” says Meredith Flynn-Ripley, CEO of HeyWire (a MediaFriends company).
HeyWire's calling card is that it gives all users their own dedicated numbers to use for free texting. The device-independent offering is a free alternative to SMS that should appeal to heavy texters.