The Seamless Communication Mechanism both for Individuals and Groups

Abstract

In recent years, there is a rapid increase in electronic communication opportunities with the spread of smartphones. In particular, applications (apps) called messengers are very popular. SMS-based messaging apps enable relatively faster communication than email and have adapted to people's lifestyles. Apps such as Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp are popular worldwidely. Their monthly number of active users is more than 1.3 billion and people recognize the messenger apps as indispensable tools for communication. Such messenger apps can be roughly classified into two types: personal chat and group chat. Regarding the personal chat, individuals can exchange one-on-one conversations and share private content and sensitive information. On the other hand, as to the group chat, users can share information with a large number of people instantly, and it is very handy for from small to large groups. Almost all of the messengers consist of these two kinds of systems. At present, various apps derive from these systems, and Slack, upon which users can communicate with each other by multiple channels depending on the topics, has emerged. However, most of the systems rely on the existing IRC (Internet Relay Chat) system, and all basic structures and designs are similar. It is inconvenient for users to switch the systems for the direct messages and the group chat. If one receives too many messages, the risk of unnoticed messages, forgetting to reply increases, and communication failure may occur. It would be ideal if we can also have a conversation with an individual on the group chat screen with multiple people. Through this research, we propose a new communication representation and messenger system that crosses the boundaries of individual chat and group chat.