Save minutes -- and money -- by calling over Wi-Fi.
Making phone calls over wireless Internet, or Wi-Fi, can help you save precious phone minutes. Google's Android operating system runs on many modern smartphones and you have several choices of apps that you can download to your phone that will enable you to make Wi-Fi calls. After you download and install whichever app you choose, you can make calls over a Wi-Fi connection whenever you have access to one.
GrooVe IP
GrooVe IP works in tandem with Google Voice to enable you to make Wi-Fi calls anywhere in the world using a free public phone number of your choosing that Google gives you when you sign up for Google Voice. Google Voice offers low international rates and calls within the United States are free for U.S. phone numbers. GrooVe IP costs $3.99 as of July, 2011.
Skype
Skype for Android allows you to use your Skype account on your Android phone and make free 3G or Wi-Fi phone calls within the U.S. or pay Skype's low international rates for calls outside the U.S. The Skype client also supports free instant messaging. Skype is a free app available from Skype.com/m. You can pay for calls with Skype Credit or make unlimited calls with a subscription. If you already have a Skype account you will see all of your contacts when you log in to your Skype account through the Skype app. Microsoft purchased Skype in early 2011, so keep your eyes peeled for changes to the service, prices and application technology in the future.
Tango Voice And Video Calls
Tango is an app that allows you to make free voice or video calls over 3G, 4G and Wi-Fi networks. To utilize Tango, both parties need to have Tango installed. Tango offers free international calling with Tango users as well as free communication between other Android or Apple iOS devices such as iTouch, iPad and iPhone that have Tango installed. Tango is a free app available from the Android Market. A key feature is the ability to start a call as a voice call and then change it to a video call and back as needed.
T-Mobile
T-Mobile is the one carrier in the U.S. to offer free Wi-Fi calling as part of its services. To utilize Wi-Fi calling, you need to ensure that the feature is included in your calling plan. T-Mobile's app, called Wi-Fi Calling, requires the Even More or Even More Plus Postpaid rate plans to work and of course you will need a phone that can run the app.
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