The Best Free WiFi Calling Apps for Android and iPhone
Keeping connected is quite essential in today's world. From catching up with friends to joining an important work meeting or checking in with family members, you require a reliable communication tool.
And if you're in the market for a free WiFi calling app for your Android or iPhone, then take a look at the review of the best free WiFi calling apps for Android and iPhone in this section, detailing their history, outstanding features, reliability, user base and so much more.
- Google Voice- Best for casual global users
- WhatsApp -Top pick for voice/video calls and group chat
- Talkatone -Best for free calls and texts while traveling abroad
- Signal- Best for secure, private communication
- Skype- Best for international calls
- Viber- Best for high-quality calls
- AirDroid Remote Support- Ideal for professional/team use
- FaceTime- Perfect for Apple users
Criteria for Selecting the Best Free WiFi Calling Apps
To determine which apps deserved a spot on this list then we used the following criteria:
- User Base and Popularity: Since they are based on a large, active user base,_apps were prioritized that offered a greater level of connectivity and reliability.
- Call Quality and Stability: Only apps with great, proven high quality calls over WiFi were considered.
- Features: Apps that stood out with SMS support, encryption(end-to-end, TLS), screen sharing, video call, group calls, file shaing, etc.
- Affordability: Apps that are entirely free or with minimal costs for premium services.
Top Free WiFi Calling Apps for Android and iPhone
Google Voice（Android, iOS, web）
Since 2009, Google Voice has been around offering free voice calling, text messaging, and voicemail. While targeted at users in the United States, the app has won a loyal following for being well integrated with its Google Workspace and easy sync between devices.
Google Voice is still rapidly popular with millions of active users and it's a very popular choice for individuals and small businesses. However, the service is particularly well suited to businesses or individuals who want to separate their work and personal calls and texts.
Standout Features
A standout feature of its voicemail transcription, it converts the messages to text for reading.
Reliability
As long as you have a good WiFi connection, however, the call will be crystal clear, taking your place of work to your mobile with the app. Its integration with Google services makes it easy to run it on Android, iOS, and web.
Advantages and Downsides
Domestic phone calls totally free in the US and Canada, and international phone calls at lowered rates. The downside is only available to U.S. and other Canadian users.
Who It's For
If you are a freelancer, a small business, or someone who wants a free, reliable secondary phone number, Google Voice is good for you.
WhatsApp（Android, iOS, web）
Launched in 2009, WhatsApp has become a global giant in communication. The app is owned by Meta, was downloaded more than 2 billion times worldwide, and is the go to app for free WiFi calling. That being said, it is hugely popular because it is simple, reliable, and packed with features.
Just like end to end encryption does for all kinds of calls and messages, WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption guarantees that any and all of its calls and messages are secure, which has made it extremely trustworthy among users in countries that take internet surveillance very seriously.
Standout Features
WhatsApp allows users to make voice and video calls to anyone globally, as long as both parties have the app installed. Its integration with contact lists ensures easy connectivity without the need for additional usernames or IDs.
Its group video call feature allows up to 32 people to join in, so it's perfect for virtual meetings and catch-ups with the family.
Reliability
In general, WhatsApp's call quality is great over a stable WiFi connection, but it may break down when you're on poor or worse, no internet. It uses adaptive bitrate technology, which adjusts audio and video quality to match your connection strength.
Advantages and Downsides
The app is free, very simple to use, there are no hidden charges or in-app purchases. However, it does limit some users to have to provide a phone number at registration. It, however, lacks advanced features such as call recording, call transcription.
Who It's For
If you're a casual user looking for free and simple way to stay in touch with friends and family around the world you are lucky WhatsApp is perfectly suitable for you.
Talkatone （Android, iOS）
Talkatone is a free calling app that allows users to make calls without a cell phone plan. Launched in 2013, it has become popular for its ability to provide a free US phone number.
Standout Features
- Free US Phone Number: Users can obtain a free US phone number, allowing them to call and text within the US and Canada
- Unlimited Calls and Texts: The app offers unlimited calls and texts, making it a cost-effective solution
Reliability
In general, WhatsApp's call quality is great over a stable WiFi connection, but it may break down when you're on poor or worse, no internet. It uses adaptive bitrate technology, which adjusts audio and video quality to match your connection strength.
Downsides
Limited to US and Canada numbers, may not be suitable for international users.
Who It's For
Talkatone is ideal for users who need a free calling solution, especially those who frequently call within the US and Canada. It's perfect for personal use or small businesses looking to save on communication costs
Signal （Android, iOS, desktop）
Signal is a privacy-focused messaging app that gained significant popularity due to its commitment to user privacy. Launched in 2018, it has quickly become a go-to app for those who prioritize security and privacy in their communications.
Standout Features
- End-to-End Encryption: All messages and calls are encrypted, ensuring that only the intended recipient can read or listen to them.
Disappearing Messages: Users can set messages to self-destruct after a certain period, adding an extra layer of privacy. - Voice and Video Calls: High-quality calls with advanced noise-cancellation technology.
Reliability
Signal is known for its reliability and has been praised for its stability and performance. It uses adaptive bitrate technology to adjust audio and video quality based on your connection strength, ensuring smooth communication even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Advantages and Downsides
- Pros: Strong privacy features, open-source code, and no ads or in-app purchases.
- Cons: Smaller user base compared to other messaging apps, which might limit its usefulness for some.
Who It's For
Signal is ideal for users who prioritize privacy and security in their communications. It's perfect for those who want to ensure that their messages and calls remain private and secure.
Skype （Android, iOS, desktop）
Skype is one of the founders of internet-based calling in 2003 and is to this day a leader in VoIP communication. Skype knowns as an highly versatile app, supporting voice call, video call, instant messaging and even screen sharing, boasting over 300 million monthly users.
Standout Features
The standout features of Skype are its ability to call landlines and mobile numbers at low costs and it's a fantastic tool to use when you are looking to communicate with people internationally. Group video calls up to 100 people are supported by the app as well.
Reliability
On a stable connection, Skype's call quality is good but has been criticized with dropped and laggy calls from time to time. But as always, Microsoft continues to keep its platform in good shape with constant updates.
Advantages and Downsides
However Skype's versatility is unmatched yet it feels a bit resource heavy on the older devices. The app itself is free but calling a non Skype number costs money in the form of Skype credits.
Who It's For
Skype is a top choice for professionals and businesses needing reliable international calling and conferencing tools.
Viber（Android, iOS, desktop）
Launched in 2010, Viber has become a household name with over 1 billion users worldwide. Viber is one of the most user friendly, feature rammeled, free WiFi calling, video calling, instant messaging and file sharing software out there.
Standout Features
But Viber's main selling point is its Viber Out feature: users can call landlines and mobile numbers at low rates. There is also a disappearing messages, stickers and even a hidden chat with added privacy feature on the app.
Reliability
High quality calls even on slower connections will be provided over WiFi on Viber. Its encrypted communication ensures that user data remains secure.
Advantages and Downsides
Viber out calls are chargeable and Viber is free for app to app communication. The app is feature-rich, but some users may find its interface slightly cluttered.
Who It's For
Hanging around Viber is great for people who require a busier app to communicate both personally and professionally.
AirDroid Remote Support （Android, iOS, desktop）
If you're looking to manage all your office tasks remotely from anywhere, try AirDroid Remote Support. It offers a great way to connect to your employees or family from anywhere and provide real-time instructions or troubleshooting tips.
Features like remote screen sharing, voice chatting, and file transferring enhance the support experience, making it an ideal choice for both individual and business needs.
Key features
- Voice Chat: Allows users to make voice calls from anywhere for better communication.
- Multi-device support: Supports computer-to-phone calls and mobile to mobile calling.
- AR Camera: Connect to the remote Android & iOS device via its camera to provide real-time instructions.
- Screen Share: It supports sharing screens remotely with other devices.
- Security layer: Force a black screen on the remote PC to hide your work from the passersby.
FaceTime (iPhone Exclusive)
Since its launch in 2010, Apple's FaceTime has been a staple of iOS devices. With over 100 million users, the go to app for Apple ecosystem seamless communication.
Standout Features
The video and audio quality on FaceTime is excellent, especially between people with powerful cameras, like the latest iPhone or iPad Pro, as you would expect, group video calls, portrait mode and SharePlay, so you can watch videos or listening music together during calls.
Reliability
The reliability of FaceTime on Apple devices is good and has a better connectivity point of view with a stellar call quality. However, it is exclusive to iOS and macOS making it inaccessible to Android users.
Advantages and Downsides
It's free, has a smooth, ad free experience, and is polished. However, its exclusivity to Apple devices is a significant drawback.
Who It's For
If you have an iPhone, iPad, or a Mac then Face Time is excellent for you if you are looking for a high quality, integrated communication tool.
What is WiFi Calling, and How Does It Work?
WiFi calling technology allows a person to make voice and video calls over a WiFi network rather than over cellular towers. It works on something called Voice over IP (VoIP) technology, where audio is transformed into digital packets that travel over the internet.
Compared to normal calling where you need a strong signal to call through a cellular network, WiFi calling is much better at connecting you to places where cellular networks aren't strong — like basements, remote areas and buildings that have thick walls.
Benefits of WiFi Calling
The benefits of WiFi calling are vast. Also, it is cost effective part, especially on international calls as it eliminates roaming charges and guarantees voice quality even on low signals. In addition, most of these apps one can find will include extra attributes like text messaging, document sharing, video calling and group chats, adding up to become versatile communication utilities.
WiFi calling means you don't need a good cellular signal, and it enables you to speak with no matter where you happen to be if you have an internet connection. It's cost effective, especially for international calls and often provides better audio quality than traditional phone calls. WiFi calling is a game changer for people who live in remote areas or use horrible cellular plans.
FAQs
Are WiFi calling apps completely free?
Free calls are made by most apps such as WhatsApp, Viber, and Skype between app to app. All this may involve an extra cost: for the call to landlines or international numbers, for example.
Do WiFi calling apps work on all devices?
Compatibility varies. Android and iOS apps include WhatsApp and Skype, and FaceTime is Apple-exclusive.
Is WiFi calling secure?
Most WiFi calling apps use encryption to protect user data, ensuring secure communication
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