It this were one year ago, and there was no subsidized iPhones out there, and the iPhone was still $600 (when it initially came out) I doubt people would be crying over the price of these apps. Those who used to own other smart phones, sees this as a steal. But, putting this phone in the price range of just about anyone (even kids mowing lawns for the summer) people are crying about $16. I spend more then that at Starbucks in a week, or going to see one movie with popcorn and a drink. $16 for a ROCK SOLID IM app that works, is well worth it.