BY VIEWCAST    UPDATED June 10, 2025

ICQ, once a pioneering platform for online chats in the late '90s, has remarkably transitioned into a modern video calls and chat messenger app. Its evolution from a desktop application with numeric IDs to a comprehensive app available on the Google Play Store illustrates its adaptability and sustained relevance in the digital era. With features catering to both individual and group communication needs, ICQ offers a blend of nostalgia and contemporary messaging services.
Originally recognized for its unique approach to connecting users through numerical IDs, ICQ has managed to maintain its charm while integrating modern functionalities. These include video calls, chat options, and enhanced privacy settings that resonate with today’s demand for secure and versatile messaging platforms. Its ability to evolve while retaining elements of its original identity is a testament to its enduring appeal.
ICQ’s journey from a desktop phenomenon to a mobile app reveals its commitment to enhancing user experience. It facilitates not just social interactions but also supports social media work for groups, demonstrating its utility in professional contexts. Its privacy features receive particular praise, ensuring users can communicate with confidence. Despite some reports of notification issues, the app’s continuous updates show a dedication to improving reliability and user satisfaction. A noteworthy feature is the app's secret PIN function, which adds an extra layer of security for users concerned about privacy.
While ICQ enjoys popularity across various regions, certain users face access issues, attributed to geographical restrictions or technical hiccups affecting connectivity. Recommendations for future updates include enhancing global accessibility and reducing dependency on VPN services for uninterrupted service. Furthermore, the ability to minimize chat windows and listen to voice notes or continue video calls in a mini screen mode are sought-after improvements that could significantly enhance multitasking capabilities and overall user satisfaction.
The app has not only facilitated connections and reunions among users who have a long history with ICQ but also fostered new communities, leveraging its group chat features. Its cultural significance remains, as evidenced by its mention in personal recoveries and professional endeavors, reflecting its role far beyond mere messaging.
ICQ’s transition into a video calls and chat messenger app embodies the blend of nostalgia and modernity, making it a unique player in the crowded messaging app market. Despite facing some challenges, its continuous updates and attention to user feedback suggest a promising direction. The app remains a cherished platform for both long-time fans and new users exploring its rich features and secure communication avenues.
Yes, ICQ provides features that support professional use, such as group chats, which can facilitate teamwork and communication in social media work.
Continuous updates are being made to address notification reliability. Users experiencing these issues should ensure they have the latest version of the app and check their app settings.
While ICQ is widely accessible, some users in specific regions may need a VPN for access. Future updates may improve global accessibility.
Yes, ICQ provides various privacy and security features, including a secret PIN function, to protect user communications.
As of now, there is a demand for improved multitasking features like minimizing chat windows. User feedback suggests this is an area for potential enhancement in future updates.
ICQ — Video Calls & Chat Messenger is primarily a mobile app designed for smartphones. However, you can run ICQ — Video Calls & Chat Messenger on your computer using an Android emulator. An Android emulator allows you to run Android apps on your PC. Here's how to install ICQ — Video Calls & Chat Messenger on your PC using Android emuator:
Visit any Android emulator website. Download the latest version of Android emulator compatible with your operating system (Windows or macOS). Install Android emulator by following the on-screen instructions.
Launch Android emulator and complete the initial setup, including signing in with your Google account.
Inside Android emulator, open the Google Play Store (it's like the Android Play Store) and search for "ICQ — Video Calls & Chat Messenger."Click on the ICQ — Video Calls & Chat Messenger app, and then click the "Install" button to download and install ICQ — Video Calls & Chat Messenger.
You can also download the APK from this page and install ICQ — Video Calls & Chat Messenger without Google Play Store.
You can now use ICQ — Video Calls & Chat Messenger on your PC within the Anroid emulator. Keep in mind that it will look and feel like the mobile app, so you'll navigate using a mouse and keyboard.

