I do not like group chats myself. Usually the group chats veers off in another direction as someone goes off topic and then everyone else is notified of a message pending or unread. It's extremely aggravating trying to get loose of a group chat when you no longer want to be a part of the discussion.
I enjoy the chat on the side. If I want to participate, I will jump in and I enjoy seeing the chatter from the other members.
