What is a Wifi or Voip calling app?

 
Many people have heard of VoIP calling apps, but are blissfully unaware of exactly what these programs are. Simply put, VoIP (voice over internet protocol) is a system that allows people to make telephone calls, send SMS messages, and even video calls all through the internet. Unlike traditional phone calls which are routed through telephone lines or mobile phone satellites, VoIP calls use an internet connection to send all data associated with the call online.

When VoIP or Wi-Fi calling apps first made their debut, they were limited in the way that they could be used. Users were only able to make phone calls to others on the same VoIP network. However, now it is possible to use smartphone calling apps to place calls to almost any country in the world. While many of these apps advertise that they will give you the ability to place free international calls, this is not entirely true. It is still necessary to call another VoIP user for the call to be completely free. If you wish to call a landline or a mobile phone, it is usually necessary to purchase credits through the calling app. Nonetheless, these apps still allow you to place international and local phone calls to almost any number for a much cheaper price per minute than with your traditional mobile carrier.
 

1. Skype

Skype is the benchmark that most other Wi-Fi calling apps are striving to match. It is incredibly popular, not only among smartphone users, but is also used by many people on their computer or tablet to place calls using a Wi-Fi connection.  The call quality is matched by few other apps.  Skype is also one of the easiest to use and smoothest running VoIP calling apps on the market. It is available for any smartphone or computer, and allows you to place free calls to any other Skype user. While Skype is probably the best known apps for making phone calls using Wi-Fi, there are also many others marketed solely for iPhone or Android users.
For calls that cannot be made thru VoIP, Skype also offers monthly subscription options which come with much cheap rates. Still, one of the most popular features of Skype is the ability to purchase an internet phone number.  This number can be used by anyone to make calls which are re-routed directly to your smartphone. This feature normally costs around $30 a month, but is well worth it if you are looking to replace your traditional mobile carrier with a VoIP number.
 

2. Wi-Fi Calling Apps for Android

2.1 Google Voice

While Google Voice does not technically use VoIP, it is still a great Wi-Fi calling app offering a call quality that is nearly as good as Skype. What Google Voice does is allow you to connect all of your phones and even VoIP numbers into one service, and route all incoming calls to whatever device you wish. This means you can use Google Voice to re-route calls coming to your mobile number to another program or device. This way, you will not have to pay for the call or use any of your mobile minutes. The app can be downloaded for free and even comes installed on many Android smartphones. However, it is only available in the US.
 

2.2 Groove IP

Groove IP is a VoIP calling app for Android that works through Google Voice to allow you to place both local and international calls at very low price per minute. For users in the United States and Canada, you can place calls to any number in these two countries completely free. Overall, it is a great app and a must have for any Android user.
 

2.3 GeeVee

GeeVee is a VoIP calling app for the Iphone, Android, and Blackberry. The app offers very clear call quality. GeeVee’s app users can call other GeeVee users for free over Wi-Fi or 3G connections. It also allows users to call anywhere in the world at very low rates to contacts not using GeeVee’s app. One of the app’s unique qualities is its 3 convenient methods of making calls – VoIP, cellular direct, and their Call-Back function. It also allows users to share pictures, videos, voice recordings, messages, contacts, and other types of files. Simply put, it is a exceptional and versatile calling app. Check out their full list of features here.
 

3. Wi-Fi Calling Apps for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch

3.1 Toktumi Line2

Line 2 is a fantastic VoIP calling app that offers great call quality and many excellent features.  It is marketed towards those who often have a problem with bad connections on their iPhone. Like GeeVee, it allows for calling on a Wi-Fi and 3G connections, which only use your data package. Not only can you use both types of connection, but the app will actually switch between the two without dropping the call. This is useful if your Wi-Fi connection suddenly cuts out or you have to leave the office while on the phone. Still, there is one major drawback to this particular app, and that is the slightly high price. A Line2 subscription costs $10 a month, which is significantly higher than Skype and other similar apps. Nonetheless, it has great features and most users find it worth the added cost. This is partly due to the fact that this price includes unlimited text messaging to any phone in almost any country in the world.

In today’s technology-driven world, callers are presented with a multitude of calling options. And depending on your unique situation, a Wi-Fi or VoIP calling app is definitely one of the cheapest and versatile solutions. Shop around and find the one that’s best for you.