<p>One of the best messaging applications you'll find available for Windows Phone 8, is IM+ by Shape Service. Unlike many messaging applications, IM+ comes preloaded with the support of several messaging platforms, which means if you do a lot of chatting via multiple circles, you may only need a single app to get the job done.</p><p>Follow us</p><p>Performance wise, IM+ is quite smooth, which is quite surprising since the last time I tested this, it was a disaster. This is probably because it is finally optimized for Windows Phone 8, so expect it to support many of the cool features you would come to expect. Features like fast resume and lock screen notifications are there, so you won't be disappointed too much.</p><p>Furthermore, the pricing has changed for the premium version. There was a time when Shape Service chose to sell this thing on the store for $4.99. The developer has since realized this move is highway robbery, and dropped the price to $1.99. If for some reason you can't afford $1.99, there's a free version, but it is limited in features.</p><p><a href="http://www.mobilenapps.com/articles/8557/20130513/im-plus-windows-phone-8-now-1-99.htm">Keep reading...</a></p>