Washington, July 18 (IANS): The next version of Yahoo Messenger app has been launched in the form of a unique video chat facility that promises to make you "feel like your friends are right there with you".

Yahoo Livetext - Video Messenger, the app that went live earlier this month introduces a unique form of video texting that combines traditional text messages with video that does not include an audio feed.

The app, currently available only in the Hong Kong iTunes App Store, seeks to offer a more natural form of communication where users can see each other's reactions in real-time once they start conversations.

"We are experimenting with new product experiences that delight our users. We have nothing further to share at this time," a Yahoo spokesperson was quoted as saying by TechCrunch.

Yahoo claims Livetext is not an alternative to a smartphone's built-in mobile apps rather it is "an entirely new way to stay in touch".

The app also seeks to solve the problem of how to better express ourselves by not relying on typing alone.

"The advent of smartphones led a shift towards convenience and speed. We have gone from communicating primarily with our voices to using our fingers to text on glass," said Yahoo.

"Our solution is to go back to the basics, by putting your words and your friend's real-time reactions at the center of your interaction. We have removed audio from the equation, as it's rarely convenient in today's fast-paced world."

The free app uses either a Wi-Fi or cellular connection and is focused on one-on-one messaging, not group chats.

Unlike Skype, Viber or FaceTime, Livetext does not support video calling.

The app also offers user profiles which include a Livetext ID and it can help you find friends based on your address book on your phone.