If you’re looking for a way to send and manage group text messages free, GroupFlier is not the answer. Despite what is stated in the app’s description, GroupFlier, which is compatible with iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad, is not a free service.
The interface of GroupFlier is extremely basic. Upon launch, you’ll be required to enter your name, phone number and the PIN the service texts to you. Then you’ll be able to start creating groups of up to 100 members — choose your group name and begin adding contacts from your address book. When you type a message, it will automatically be sent to everyone in that group, and their replies will be displayed as a conversation. Your contacts receive the message as a normal text, but from a random telephone number. Responses will appear on your device as a push notification, but GroupFlier does not support multi-tasking, so the app has to fully load each time you send a reply.
At one point, the app sent me a notification to visit its website, groupflier.com, and it was here that I first discovered the cost aspect of the service. New users will be given a $10 credit (only the group creator will be charged). Through the website you can see your iPhone-created groups, as well as implement settings, such as replies going to all group members or only to the group creator. This is a major feature missing from the app, and severely limits the app’s functionality since you can send messages directly through the website.
GroupFlier’s switch from free to premium was enacted on March 21, so it’s possible that at the time of this writing, an update to the app’s description is en route to Apple. Current users have until April 4 to choose a subscription plan. Rates are pending.
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