Been using whatsapp for years now and it has been growing and expanding exponentially. Facebook has slowly and slightly lost its growth and popularity with the upcoming of whatsapp. The best part being how lite and data efficient it is with its multi farious functions. You can send data over the app too.
With regular updates, they are maintaining a bug free app. Also, with the new emoticons added now, there just so much more reason to say hi to your loved ones, or may be the one you love.;)
There is no ditance that hasnt been reduced by whatsapp.