Make Affordable International Calls with Skype

It may sound like a scam: Free international calls using your desktop or laptop computer if you just download some software! But Skype has proven its worth over the years. If you download the software and have anyone you wish to call do the same, you can connect in groups, share screens, record calls, and take advantage of many modern features.

Ask any active duty military member who has deployed overseas; you’ll probably hear positive comments. Many military members and overseas workers set up Skype accounts for their families to call home for free. Calling other Skype contacts on your computer comes without cost; however, you will pay to call a mobile phone or landline.

Getting Started With Skype

First, download and install Skype’s software, which is straightforward. After confirming your computer meets Skype’s minimum requirements, you can find your operating system on the Skype website. The download and installation process should only take a few minutes. Once installed, launch the application and create a Skype name and password.

You will be prompted to enter a payment method to pay for calls and text messages to mobile phones and landlines. However, if you don’t use those features or subscribe to monthly unlimited plans for those features, you won’t be charged for video and voice calls to other Skype users.

It’s always wise to read the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy for any company you consider doing business with, including Skype.

How to Make Calls With Skype

Using your computer, you can easily make a voice call to an individual or a group of up to 49 people. If you choose to make a video call, the maximum number of participants will depend on your device and platform.

Skype is also available through a cell phone. Calls may include up to 24 people, in addition to yourself. As long as you have a Skype number, people can easily reach you on your cell phone. On certain devices, you can share photos and send reactions.

Moreover, you can use Skype through Amazon’s Alexa, which is accessible in numerous countries, including the U.S., U.K., Canada, India, Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, and Spain.

An Xbox One is another option for making free one-to-one and group audio and video Skype calls globally via your television.

Pros of Making Calls With Skype

Many users are surprised by the excellent sound quality, often reporting that it sounds better on Skype than on traditional home telephones. Skype is user-friendly; simply connect to the internet to make calls from nearly anywhere in the world and even send texts. Backed by a comprehensive website with help pages and a list of frequently asked questions, it presents several advantages, including:

• Skype allows you to set up a contact list for easier access to frequently called numbers. You can also search for people you know on Skype to connect with them for free.
• If you need to call someone lacking a Skype account, rates are competitive using Skype Credit. Generally, calling international landlines is cheaper than dialing international mobile phones. Additionally, Skype offers subscription plans to call specific destinations at a reduced cost.
• Local phone numbers are available through Skype in over 20 countries/regions.
• Skype features language translation for conversations in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Chinese (Mandarin), Italian, Portuguese (Brazilian), Arabic, and Russian, while texts can be translated into more than 60 languages.

Cons of Using Skype for Calls

While Skype offers numerous valuable features for connecting with loved ones and colleagues worldwide, it does come with some drawbacks. Although the sound quality is typically good, it can fluctuate depending on your location and type of internet access. Some additional cons include:

• The primary drawback is that Skype isn’t a complete substitute for a landline. You can only make emergency calls from a limited number of locations and using certain software.
• Although Skype’s rates range from free to very low, you must factor in the cost of internet access, which varies with your location, internet provider, and plan, necessitating careful price comparisons based on your destination country.
• Access to a computer, tablet, smartphone (or alternatively, Amazon’s Alexa or an Xbox), and high-speed internet service is necessary.
• If you’re accustomed to using a cordless or cell phone and moving around during calls, using Skype may require you to sit in one spot if you’re on a headset connected to a laptop.