Monkey app review: is it safe, and the best apps like Monkey for adults

Millions of people search for the Monkey app every month. Here is what it is, how it works, what its own data says, why you can't find it on the iPhone, and what to use instead if you're an adult. We make Chaface, so to be upfront: the Monkey facts below come from its Google Play listing and public sources.

What is the Monkey app?

Monkey is an app for meeting new people over video. Two teenagers, Isaiah Turner and Ben Pasternak, founded it in 2016, and in late 2017 it was bought by its rival Holla. Today it's published by "Monkey Group", and its listing describes it as "created by 5 teens in LA" with more than 30 million users worldwide.

Its audience has always skewed very young, which is behind most of the safety concerns below.

How Monkey works

Monkey by the numbers

Google Play listing (US store), checked in October 2026.

Why isn't Monkey on the App Store?

If you have an iPhone, you won't find it: Monkey is currently not listed on the Apple App Store, and Apple hasn't publicly said why. It disappeared after years of criticism of random chat apps. In 2019, for example, The Washington Post analyzed thousands of reviews of these apps, Monkey included, and found complaints of sexual harassment, including of minors.

On iPhone you can only use it in the browser, on its website. On Android it's still on Google Play.

Is the Monkey app safe?

Monkey has report and block tools, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• A very young audience. Family safety guides such as Internet Matters rate it as risky for minors, because age largely depends on what each user says.
• Unencrypted data. In its Google Play data safety section, the app itself states that data isn't encrypted in transit and that some data may be shared with third parties.
• Payment complaints. Some of the most helpful reviews describe ads and subscriptions that didn't deliver what was promised.

Whatever app you use, follow the basics: don't share your full name, address or social accounts, and report anyone who makes you uncomfortable. More in Is random video chat safe?

How much does Monkey cost?

It's free to download but has in-app purchases. According to its listing and Google Play reviews, there's a Monkey PLUS subscription and coins to unlock features such as who you get matched with. Prices vary by country. If you subscribe, remember to cancel the renewal in Google Play → Payments & subscriptions.

Monkey vs Chaface

Apps like Monkey for adults (18+)

If you want something similar but built for adults, these are the most used options:

• Chaface: one-to-one random video chat, 18+ only, free, with a free country filter. Works in the browser and on Android.
• Azar: a huge community and live translation, but gender and region filters need a subscription. See our Azar review.
• OmeTV: very popular in Europe and Latin America. See OmeTV alternative.

For more options, see the best Omegle alternatives.

Monkey app FAQ