Table of Contents
Introduction
As technology continues to advance at an astonishing pace, the way we communicate with each other is also evolving.
Gone are the days of expensive long-distance calls and limited communication options.
In today's world, Internet calls have become the norm for staying in touch with friends, family, and colleagues.
With the exponential growth of the Internet, the possibilities for internet calls are endless. So, what are the top apps for internet calls in 2024? Let's explore.
Google Voice
Google Voice is a free service offered by Google that provides users with a unique phone number and a variety of communication features.
It allows users to make and receive calls, send and receive text messages, manage voicemail, forward calls, block unwanted numbers, set customizable greetings, and more.
Features
Making and receiving calls: Google Voice allows users to make free calls to US and Canadian phone numbers, both landlines and mobiles. It also offers competitive rates for international calls.
Text messaging: Users can send and receive text messages (SMS) from their Google Voice number.
Voicemail management: Google Voice provides users with voicemail transcription and recording, making it easier to access and manage voicemails.
Call forwarding: Users can forward calls to another phone number to ensure they never miss important calls.
Blocking: Google Voice allows users to block unwanted numbers, reducing the chances of receiving spam calls and messages.
Customizable greetings: Users can set personalized greetings for callers based on their identity or availability.
Group messaging: Google Voice also offers the ability to manage group chats for conversations with multiple contacts.
Accessibility
Web browser: Google Voice can be accessed through a web browser on a computer, making it convenient for desktop use.
Mobile app: The service also has a mobile app available for Android and iOS devices, allowing users to access it on the go.
Phone integration: Users can integrate their existing phone number with Google Voice for a unified experience.
Pros
Cost-effective: Google Voice offers free calls within the US and Canada, and competitive international rates, allowing users to save money on their mobile plans.
Convenience: The service allows for seamless management of calls, texts, and voicemails across various devices, making it convenient for users.
Privacy: Google Voice provides a separate number for personal or professional use, keeping personal and business calls separate.
Accessibility: As long as there is an Internet connection, users can access Google Voice from anywhere, making it easy to stay connected regardless of location.
Customization: The service allows users to set personalized greetings, call forwarding rules, and voicemail settings, giving them more control over their communication.
Cons
Limited availability: Currently, Google Voice is only available in the US and select Google Workspace markets, limiting its accessibility for users in other countries.
Potential for spam calls: As with any phone service, Google Voice is susceptible to spam calls. However, users can use features like call blocking to manage them.
Integration with existing number: While integrating an existing phone number with Google Voice offers a unified experience, it can also cause confusion and potential missed calls.
Skype
Skype is a popular communication platform that allows users to make free Skype-to-Skype calls, as well as paid calls to national landlines and mobiles. It offers a variety of features such as instant messaging, video calling, screen sharing, and more.
Features
Provides free Skype-to-Skype calls: One of the main features of Skype is the ability to make free calls to other Skype users. This is great for staying in touch with friends and family who also have Skype.
Requires payment for national landline and mobile calls: While Skype-to-Skype calls are free, calls to national landlines and mobiles require payment. This can be done through Skype Credit or subscriptions.
Skype Credit or subscriptions are needed for paid calls: To make paid calls, users can either purchase Skype Credit or subscribe to a monthly plan. Skype Credit can be bought in various increments starting at $5.00, while subscriptions start at $2.99 per month.
Skype Number required to receive calls from landlines and mobiles: To receive calls from landlines and mobiles, users need to have a Skype Number. This is a virtual number that people can call, and it will ring on the Skype app.
Microsoft 365 Family and Personal plans include 60 free Skype call minutes per month: Those who have a Microsoft 365 subscription, can enjoy 60 free Skype call minutes per month. This is a great perk for those who already have a Microsoft 365 plan.
Offers instant messaging, video calling, screen sharing, and more: Skype offers a variety of features aside from just voice calls. Users can also send instant messages, make video calls, share screens, and more.
Native app on Windows 10, with desktop client available for macOS and Linux: Skype is native to Windows 10, meaning it comes pre-installed on the operating system. It is also available as a desktop client for macOS and Linux.
Supports instant messaging, video calling, screen sharing, and more: The desktop client of Skype supports the same features as the native app, making it accessible to users on different operating systems.
Pros
Native to Windows: As mentioned, Skype is native to Windows 10, making it easily accessible for users of this operating system.
Widely available: Skype is available on a variety of platforms including desktop, mobile, and web.
Cons
Requires a separate subscription for receiving landline calls: To receive calls from landlines, users need to subscribe to a monthly plan which starts at $6.99 per month.
No free nationwide calling: Unlike some other communication platforms, Skype does not offer free nationwide calling.
Pricing
Subscriptions start at $2.99 per month: The cheapest subscription plan for Skype starts at $2.99 per month and includes unlimited calls to landlines and mobiles within the US and Canada.
Skype Credit starts at $5.00: Users can purchase Skype Credit starting at $5.00, which can be used to make paid calls.
Monthly fee of $6.99 for receiving landline and mobile calls: To receive calls from landlines and mobiles, users need to subscribe to a monthly plan which starts at $6.99 per month.
Toll charges vary: Depending on the country and type of call, toll charges may vary.
Availability
Desktop: Skype is available on desktop for Windows, Mac, Linux, and web.
Mobile: Skype can be downloaded on both Android and iOS devices, including phones and tablets.
Other: Skype is also available on Xbox and Amazon Alexa devices.
Google Duo
Google Duo is a popular video-calling app developed by Google. It offers a variety of features and is available on multiple platforms.
Features
Audio and video calls on the Internet: Google Duo allows users to make high-quality audio and video calls over the Internet. This feature makes it a convenient option for staying connected with friends and family, especially during long-distance calls.
Family Mode: This feature is designed for fun and interactive video calls with family members. It allows users to doodle on the screen during calls, making it a fun way to connect with loved ones.
Free to use: Google Duo is completely free to use and only requires a phone number and a Google Account to sign up. This makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
End-to-end encryption: All voice and video calls on Google Duo are encrypted, ensuring the privacy and security of its users.
Cross-platform compatibility: Google Duo allows video calls between Android phones and iPhones/iPads, making it a versatile option for users with different devices.
Screen sharing: This feature allows users to share their screens during video calls, making it useful for presentations or troubleshooting technical issues.
Group calls: Google Duo supports group calls with up to 32 participants. This feature is great for virtual gatherings or meetings with multiple people.
Send calls to non-Duo users: Users can also send video calls to Android devices that do not have the Google Duo app installed. The recipient can answer the call on their phone's web browser.
Pros
Cross-platform compatibility: Google Duo allows video calls between Android and iOS devices, making it a convenient option for users with different devices.
Family Mode: The family mode feature adds a fun and interactive element to video calls, making it a great option for connecting with family members.
Cons
No instant messaging: Unlike other video calling apps, Google Duo does not have an instant messaging feature. Users can only make audio and video calls through the app.
Limited group calling capabilities: While Google Duo supports group calls, it is limited to only 32 participants. This may not be enough for larger group meetings or virtual events.
Pricing
Google Duo is completely free to use and does not have any in-app purchases.
Availability
Google Duo is available on the following platforms:
Desktop: Users can access Google Duo on their desktop through the web version.
Mobile: Google Duo is available for download on Android and iOS devices, including smartphones and tablets.
WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that allows users to send text messages, make voice and video calls, and share documents with others. It was founded in 2009 and acquired by Facebook in 2014. Here's a breakdown of WhatsApp's features and availability.
Features
Uses phone number for account setup: Eliminating the need for a username and password makes it easy for users to sign up and access the app.
End-to-end encryption: All calls and messages are encrypted by default, ensuring privacy as messages are not stored on WhatsApp's servers.
Two-step verification: Provides added security with a six-digit PIN, requiring users to enter a unique code in addition to their phone number during setup.
Supports group chat, document sharing, and built-in camera functionality: Enables easy sharing of documents and photos, and includes a built-in camera for capturing and sharing images and videos within the app.
Doesn't use your phone's default camera app: Allows for a more seamless in-app camera experience, preventing accidental sharing of photos or videos from the camera roll.
Pros
No need for login credentials: Users can simply use their phone number to sign up and access the app, making it easy to use.
End-to-end encryption: Enhances privacy by ensuring that messages and calls are secure and inaccessible to anyone else.
Two-step verification: Adds an extra layer of protection to user accounts, helping prevent unauthorized access.
Cons
Requires a phone number for account setup: This may be a drawback for users who are hesitant to share their phone number or do not have access to a phone.
QR code scan required for web version use: Users need to scan a QR code from their phone to use WhatsApp on their computer, which can be inconvenient for some users.
Pricing
WhatsApp is free to use and does not have any hidden fees or in-app purchases.
Availability
WhatsApp is available on desktop for Windows, Mac, and the web. It is also available on mobile for Android and iPhone users. This wide availability makes it accessible across various devices for seamless communication.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these are the best apps for making internet calls in 2024. Each app offers its unique features, but they all have one thing in common: they make communication easier and more accessible.
With the constant advancements in technology, we can expect these apps to continue to improve and offer even more features in the years to come.
So why wait? Download one (or all) of these apps and start making crystal clear Internet calls today.
FAQs
Q1. What is an Internet call app?
An Internet call app is a type of software that allows users to make phone calls over the Internet rather than through traditional phone lines.
These apps use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to transmit voice calls over the Internet, making it possible to make calls without using cellular data or minutes.
Q2. What are the top Internet call apps in 2024?
The top internet call apps in 2024 will likely include popular options such as Google Voice, Skype, Google Duo, and WhatsApp. These apps have been consistently popular for internet calls and are likely to remain at the forefront in the future.
Q3. What features can we expect from these apps in 2024?
In 2024, we can expect internet call apps to have advanced features such as high-definition audio and video, improved call quality, and enhanced security measures. They may also incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) technology for better user experience and voice recognition for more efficient calling.
Q4. Will there be any new Internet call apps in 2024?
New Internet call apps will likely emerge in 2024, as technology continues to advance and new companies enter the market. These new apps may offer unique features and capabilities that set them apart from existing options.
Q5. How will internet call apps impact communication in 2024?
Internet call apps will continue to play a significant role in communication in 2024.
As technology advances and becomes more accessible, these apps will make it easier for people to connect globally, regardless of distance.
They will also provide cost-effective alternatives to traditional phone services, making communication more affordable for individuals and businesses.
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