
You will need a high-speed connection for an acceptable video image, especially if you make group calls between several participants. Clearly, they require a network connected to an internet service provider to operate successfully, but the spread of WiFi networks has made this much easier to manage.Ī personal user can connect from a desktop linked to a broadband service provider at home, and increasingly from a smart device attached to a home WiFi network. Smart device apps like Skype and Whatsapp provide the ability to make essentially free international calls. Here are three simple tips for personal and business users to make sure that they accrue the full benefit of cheaper international communications. However, the prudent personal and business user needs to be vigilant to make the best return on their investment and achieve the lowest possible international call rates. VoIP for Business has provided communications options that are not possible with a fixed line environment. It has opened up opportunities for enhanced, and substantially cheaper communications, especially for long-distance and international calls. The free service saw 14.2 billion minutes used.The advent of Voice over IP telephony (“ VoIP”) has radically changed the face of communications for both personal and business users. In the first-quarter of this year the subscribers logged 1.7 billion minutes of paid calls.

Skype, which is owned by eBay, also offers free computer-to-computer calls. Vonage and cable companies offer similar plans but at higher prices. Subscribers will also have the option to call a local number from their phones and be connected to international numbers, paying only local access charges or cell-phone airtime. Skype calls are made from computers equipped with a microphone and speakers or a headset. Calls to cell phones in other countries aren’t included. landlines and cell phones are included, as are calls to cell phones in Canada, China, Hong Kong and Singapore.

The countries include most of Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Chile, China, Singapore, Taiwan, Japan, Korea and Malaysia.

The plan allows unlimited calls to land-line phones in 34 countries. Skype announced today an unlimited international calling plan that only costs $9.95 a month.
