I. Introduction
Did you ever avoid calling your loved ones who live overseas because of expensive international calling charges? Or regretted that your short chat with your friends quickly ended because you ran out of mobile load? If yes, then you are not alone. Making international calls can be costly, and it can quickly drain out your budget, especially if you frequently communicate with people from other countries.
In this article, we will discuss the different methods and apps you can use to make international calls without spending a single penny. We will explore the features, pros, and cons of each approach and provide a step-by-step guide on how to set them up. By the end of this article, you will have several options to choose from and be able to stay connected with your loved ones without worrying about the cost.
II. Using a Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Service
One of the most popular ways to make free international calls is by using a Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service. VoIP works by transmitting your voice data over the internet instead of traditional phone networks. While making calls through VoIP, you will need an internet connection, either through Wi-Fi or mobile data. Here are some popular VoIP apps you can use:
WhatsApp is a popular messaging application that offers free international calling services. The app can be downloaded on Android or iOS devices and works well with both Wi-Fi and mobile data. One of the benefits of using WhatsApp is that it uses end-to-end encryption, ensuring that your calls are secure and private. On the other hand, WhatsApp requires both parties to have the app installed, so it might take some time to ask your contacts to download the app.
Skype
Skype is one of the earliest and most reliable VoIP services. It can be used on most devices and platforms, including smartphones, desktops, laptops, or tablets. Skype offers a wide range of features, including video calling, screen sharing, and instant messaging. One disadvantage of using Skype is the call quality is often affected by the internet speed, so you might need a stable and high-speed internet connection to enjoy a clear call.
Google Duo
Google Duo is a popular video calling app created by Google. The app is free, easy to use, and offers a high-quality video call even in low-bandwidth areas. One unique selling point of Google Duo is its ability to function with both Android and iOS devices. It also supports group video calls, making it an excellent choice for group conversations.
Setting up VoIP apps is usually straightforward. You need to create an account, verify your phone number, and allow the app to access your contacts. After that, you can start making free international calls to any user who has the same app installed.
III. Free International Calling Apps
Other than VoIP apps, there are also free international calling apps that utilize your phone’s Wi-Fi or mobile data connection to make calls. Unlike VoIP apps, free international calling apps allow you to call phones or landlines that are not using the same app.
Rebtel
Rebtel is a free app that allows you to make international calls to anyone who has a phone number. The app assigns a unique local number to your contact, allowing you to call them without worrying about international fees. Another advantage of Rebtel is that you can earn up to 300 free minutes per month by inviting friends and family to install the app.
Viber
Viber is a popular messaging and calling app that allows you to make free international calls to other Viber users. The app offers high-quality audio calls and video calls and can be used on most devices and platforms. One disadvantage of using Viber is that it may drain your battery more compared to other apps, so it is best to use it while charging your device.
Google Voice
Google Voice is an internet-based phone service that allows you to make calls on your computer or mobile device. With Google Voice, you can call any US or Canadian numbers for free and make international calls at a low rate. You can also receive calls using your Google Voice number and forward them to your phone or email address. One disadvantage of using Google Voice is that it is only available in the US and Canada.
To use free international calling apps, you need to download the app, create an account, and allow it to access your contacts. After that, you can start making free calls to any phone numbers whether they are using the same app or not.
IV. Internet-Based Conference Calls
If you need to make group calls, consider using internet-based conference calls. These apps work similarly to normal phone calls, but instead of a phone network, it uses the internet to connect multiple users from different locations.
Zoom
Zoom is a meeting app that allows up to 100 participants to join a video or audio call. The app can be used on most devices and platforms and offers a wide range of features, including screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and live chat. One disadvantage of using Zoom is that the call quality is affected by the internet speed, so it’s best to have a stable and fast internet connection.
GoToMeeting
GoToMeeting is another internet-based conference call app that allows up to 250 participants to join a call. The app offers a screen-sharing feature, recording option, and even a transcription service. One unique selling point of GoToMeeting is its Call Me feature, which allows participants to join the call by answering their phone instead of typing a PIN number.
Webex
Webex is a video conferencing software that caters to businesses. It can be used on most devices and platforms and can connect up to 1000 participants in a single call. Webex offers different pricing plans depending on the features you need, making it an excellent choice for larger organizations.
To start an internet-based conference call, you need to download the app, create an account, and invite participants to join the call by sending them a link or a meeting ID. Some apps may require you to set up a password or a PIN number to ensure the meeting is secure and private.
V. Free International Calling Plans from Cellular Providers
If you don’t want to use any of the apps mentioned above, you can also check if your mobile carrier offers free international calling plans. Some mobile carriers offer free international calling to certain countries or as part of a specific bundle or plan.
For instance, T-Mobile offers free international calling and texting to over 140 countries and regions for its postpaid customers. AT&T offers unlimited calling to Canada and Mexico and discounted rates on other international calls for its customers. Check with your mobile carrier to see if they offer any free international calling plans or add-ons.
VI. Online Phone Services
Another option to make free international calls is by using online phone services. These services work by using the internet to make phone calls to any phones or landlines. There are several online phone services available, each with their pros and cons.
iEvaphone
iEvaphone is a free online phone service that allows you to make free calls to any phone numbers in the world. The service is free and does not require registration or installation of any software. The only downside of iEvaphone is that the call duration is limited to a few minutes, and you have to listen to advertisements before making the call.
CitrusTel
CitrusTel is another free online phone service that allows you to make free international calls to any phone numbers in the world. The service can be used on most devices and platforms and does not require registration or installation of any software. Additionally, CitrusTel offers unlimited call duration, making it an excellent choice for longer conversations.
ToggleMobile
ToggleMobile is a free international calling service that allows you to make free calls to any phone or landlines in the world by using the internet. The service requires you to sign up and top up your account with some credits, but it offers lower rates for international calls compared to other providers. Additionally, ToggleMobile offers a callback option that can help you save your mobile data and call charges.
Using online phone services is straightforward. All you need is an internet connection and a device that can access the service’s website. Some services may require registration or payment to have access to additional features or make longer calls.
VII. Conclusion
Making international calls no longer has to be expensive. With the different methods and apps mentioned above, you can stay connected with your loved ones without worrying about the cost. No matter which approach you choose, ensure that you have a stable and fast internet connection, and check for any data charges before making international calls. We hope that this ultimate guide on how to call international for free has provided you with valuable insights and helped you find the suitable approach that works for you.
