As remote working has become the norm in 2023, free international calling apps have become essential for staying connected and maintaining social interactions. The market size of international calling apps was valued at USD 1.14 billion in 2020 and is estimated to reach USD 1.80 billion by 2028, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.00% from 2021 to 2028.
There are many VoIP phone systems and international calling apps to make communication seamless, and they often come with a catch. You need to choose wisely a modern-day solution to your modern needs and create a communication system that doesn’t face a couple of bumps along this ride.
Fortunately, free options, such as mobile apps and business phone systems, make international calls. Many such platforms also allow you to send text messages, images, and videos.
In the ever-expanding landscape of free international calling apps, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is best fitted to meet your communication needs. To help you make a knowledgeable decision, evaluate call quality, check global reach, review data usage, security, privacy, features, cross-platform compatibility, app reviews, ratings, & customer support. Considering these tips, you can confidently select the best free international calling app that aligns with your communication requirements, ensuring seamless and cost-effective connectivity with your global contacts in 2023 and beyond.
This article lists the top 15 international calling apps (in no particular order) to make free international calls. So let’s go.
What Is A Free International Call App?
A free international call app is a software program that enables you to initiate voice or video calls to individuals worldwide without incurring any charges provided you have access to data or Wi-Fi internet connectivity. These apps use the internet to connect the calls instead of a standard cellular connection, eliminating long-distance charges.
Some popular examples of free international call apps are WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype, Google Voice, Viber, LINE, and WeChat. These apps only require the other party to install the same app and an internet connection to make the free call.
What Are The Benefits Of A Free International Calling App?
A free international calling app offers numerous advantages for individuals seeking cost-effective and convenient communication. By leveraging the internet’s power, these apps allow users to make international calls, send messages, and even engage in video chats, all without incurring substantial expenses typically associated with traditional methods. Let’s analyze the advantages of a free international calling app:
1. Accessibility
International calling apps offer a seamless and user-friendly experience for making international calls. With these apps, users can effortlessly dial numbers, send messages, and initiate video calls with just a few clicks or taps on their devices, ensuring hassle-free communication.
2. Affordability
Software applications like Skype and WhatsApp enable users to initiate calls without any cost. This affordability factor greatly facilitates staying in touch with family and friends residing abroad, making international communication more accessible and budget-friendly.
3. Superior Call Quality
International calling apps leverage robust internet connections to ensure crystal-clear and uninterrupted conversations, enabling users to engage in high-quality discussions without disruptions, cracks, or distortions, fostering a smooth and immersive communication experience.
4. Versatile Functionality
Numerous apps provide a range of additional features, including conference calling, file sharing, text messaging, video and audio calling, file transfers, and more. These supplementary functionalities empower users to maximize their communication experience by accessing diverse tools and options to suit their specific needs and preferences.
5. On-the-Go Connectivity
International calling apps can be accessed from any internet-connected device, ensuring seamless connectivity regardless of location or time zone difference. This flexibility enables users to stay connected and engaged, overcoming geographical barriers and time constraints for uninterrupted communication.
What Are The Features Of The Free International Call App?
A free international calling app comes packed with various advanced features that improve communication and enable consumers to connect globally without incurring high expenses.
These apps utilize internet connectivity to provide a range of functionalities, including voice calls, messaging, video chats, and more. Let’s explore the key features of a free international calling app.
1. Free Voice/Video Calling
The primary feature is the ability to make free voice or video calls to anyone worldwide with the same app. No long-distance or roaming charges apply.
2. Messaging & Multimedia Sharing
Alongside voice calls, free international call apps often offer messaging capabilities, allowing users to send texts, photos, videos, and additional multimedia files. This feature promotes quick and efficient communication, enabling users to exchange information and experiences beyond just voice communication.
3. Cross-Platform Compatibility
Free international call apps are designed to work across various platforms and devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. This multi-platform compatibility guarantees customers stay connected and make phone calls regardless of their selected device or OS.
4. Group Chat/Calling
Some apps allow you to simultaneously make group video or voice calls with several friends and family. You can have virtual meetups from anywhere in the world.
5. Call Recording
Certain apps allow recording your calls or parts of calls to refer back to key details or discussions later. Call recording can be done with the consent of both parties.
6. Security
Some apps like WhatsApp and Viber offer end-to-end encryption, meaning that your calls and messages are secured and only accessible to the intended recipients. Not all free calling apps provide this level of encryption, though.
Top 15 Free International Calling Apps
Now that you have a general understanding of the pricing and features offered by these international calling apps, we encourage you to explore our comprehensive reviews of each provider. Below, we have curated a list of our top 15 free international calling apps, offering a diverse range of options for seamless global communication.
Application Name | Free Trail | Compatibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | Android, iOS | Requires an internet connection | |
| Yes | Android, iOS | Can call landlines and mobiles for a fee | |
| No | iOS, macOS | Only available for Apple devices | |
| Yes | Android, iOS | Offers free voice and video calls | |
| Yes | Android, iOS | Requires a Google account | |
| Yes | Android, iOS | Offers free messaging and calling | |
| Yes | Android, iOS | Popular in China, offers voice and video calls | |
| Yes | Android, iOS | Offers encrypted voice and video calls | |
| Yes | Android, iOS | Simple and user-friendly interface | |
| Yes | Android, iOS | Provides high-quality international calling | |
| Yes | Web | Allows web-based calls to various countries | |
| Yes | Android, iOS | Offers free calls and messaging to other Vonage users | |
| Yes | Android, iOS | Supports calls to landlines and mobiles worldwide | |
| No | Web, Android, iOS | Focuses more on business phone services | |
| Yes | Android, iOS | Provides a dedicated phone number for calling and texting |
1. WhatsApp
WhatsApp is an international free calling app owned by Facebook and is a full-featured customer engagement software. The tool is used for personal communication and business marketing and provides free calling services.
This software allows you to instantly share text messages, photos, multimedia files, and documents for free. You can make voice and video calls using this free international calling app.
Furthermore, Whatsapp added end-to-end encryption in 2016 for solid security. It applies to all messages and calls using this free international calling app for android.
Key Features
- Group chat
- Audio and video calls
- End-to-end encryption
- Data backup and restore
- Status updates
- Location sharing
- Multi-platform compatibility
Pricing
- It is free to use.
Compatibility
- WhatsApp is compatible with Android, iOS, and Desktop (Windows).
Pros and Cons
- Security of data due to end-to-end encryption
- Allows you to delete messages
- The platform supports call waiting when you are busy on another call
- You can use this application from multiple platforms
- The app can be used for sending bulk messages for marketing
- Calls cannot be made to contacts who are not using this platform
- A good Wi-Fi connection is required for calling
- There is no content censorship
2. Skype
Skype
Skype is the best international video call app that you can use to make free national and international calls. You can use this tool professionally by arranging various conferences and meetings. Video and audio recording is one of the distinctive features of Skype. This best free international calling app for android is one of the most widely used remote working platforms.
The intuitively designed user interface can be adapted easily. You can also contact people outside Skype, i.e., mobile phones or landlines, at minimum rates with no peak time.
Key Features
- Voicemail
- Video calling
- Screen sharing
- Text messaging
- Call recording
Pricing
- Skype offers free services, but a monthly subscription starts at £2.40.
Compatibility
- Skype is compatible with Android, iOS, and Desktop (Windows).
Pros and Cons
- Allows for up to 10 participants in group calls with other Skype users for free
- Create or join a meeting to simplify remote working
- Screen sharing to share presentations or other relevant documents
- The tool can be configured with an email
- Easy sign-in process
- HD video quality on calls is only possible with a good Wi-Fi connection
- It provides limited or no access to emergency services
- Language translation services are not available on Skype
- The sound quality on Skype relies on the available bandwidth
3. FaceTime
Facetime
FaceTime is a fully-featured free international phone call app that allows you to make one-to-one calls, group calls, video and voice messages, photo sharing, and note-sharing. You can use this international calling app for free and start making calls for free. The tool can be handy for remote working, and you can conduct virtual business meetings, conferences, and other collaborative projects seamlessly.
To use it, you will need an Apple ID. FaceTime automatically registers your phone number on an iPhone. Using it is the same as calling someone using a phone. Simply call the person you want from your contacts.
Key Features
- Screen-sharing
- Group FaceTime calls
- HD video and audio calls
- Easy integration with Apple devices
- Share Play
Pricing
- It is free to use.
Compatibility
- FaceTime is compatible only with iOS and Mac.
Pros and Cons
- Quick setup and easy sign-in
- This free international calling app is very easy to set up and has an elegant interface
- HD-quality video calls
- Invite all the group members for the call, and they can see a live call ongoing in their conversations chatbox where they can jump in anytime
- Communications are protected by end-to-end encryption
- High data consumption in video calls
- Old devices support video calls, not voice calls
- Facetime is not particularly well-suited for work-related applications or enhancing productivity
- It continues to be exclusive to Apple devices as a video telephony platform
- Facetime lacks text-based messaging and standard chat features, which may be considered limitations
4. LINE
LINE is an international calling app that connects family and friends in any part of the world. The recipient does not require the LINE app to receive calls.
You can also share text messages, photos, videos, and stickers with your contacts through the app. The platform has more than 1000 stickers to make your conversations interesting. You can use this app to read the news as well.
Key Features
- Group chat
- Audio and video call
- “Read” feature, stickers
- LINE pay, news, etc
- OpenChat
- LINE VOOM
Pricing
- Line’s pricing plans start at $9.99 – $14.99 monthly.
Compatibility
- LINE is compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, Nokia, and Blackberry. The platform can even be used on your desktop.
Pros and Cons
- Simple and easy user interface with multi-platform support
- Excellent layout with a timeline-like view to get all the updates in one place
- Allows you to share moments directly from chats via live video
- Enables you to add cute filters to your chat
- Share moments directly from chats via live video
- Adequate network speed is necessary for smooth calls on LINE
- Call drops can occur frequently on LINE
- LINE usage is limited to specific countries
5. Google Voice
Google Voice
Google Voice is a VoIP phone system that offers free video and voice call services to limited countries. The application allows you to forward calls to any other device. Also, easily detect any spam calls and block them instantly through this platform.
The application allows you to decide who can reach you and when. Making international calls using Google Voice is easy, and the app offers a user-friendly interface.
Key Features
- Call recording
- Integration with Google Meet and Calendar
- Voicemail transcripts
- Personalized Voicemail greetings
- Spam Protection
- Call block
Pricing
- Google Voice offers monthly pricing plans that range from $10 to $30 per user.
Compatibility
- Google Voice is compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows. It can be used on smartphones as well as computers.
Pros and Cons
- You get a free virtual number that can be used for business marketing
- User-friendly interface and can be used on both smartphones and desktop
- Receive transcripts of your voicemails over text messages and emails
- Link all the numbers to a single account, so whenever you get a call, all devices will ring at the same time
- Set specific voicemail messages for callers
- The app does not support HD voice quality, and at the same time, it depends on a good Wi-Fi connection
- The texting feature is limited to the USA only
- Collaboration options are restricted & toll-free numbers are not supported
- Auto-replies are not available, and call recordings are not directly accessible
6. Viber
Viber
Viber is one of the best free international calling apps that lets you connect with other users. The tool is intuitively designed and easy to use when making or receiving international calls.
The app also allows you to initiate group conversations by sharing images, videos, and audio using the system. Also, choose from thousands of stickers and GIFs.
Key Features
- Smart Notifications
- Hide Viber Chat
- Secret Chat
- Audio and video calls
- Create custom stickers
Pricing
- Viber allows free calls but offers a flat rate of only 1.9 cents per minute for dialing all USA-based landline and mobile numbers.
Compatibility
- Viber is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
Pros and Cons
- Easy sign-up process with just a phone number
- Extensive library of emoticons, GIFs, and stickers to select from
- Transfer high-quality images, and identify new contacts and friends through the ‘Discover’ tab
- The data is secure by end-to-end encryption
- Create groups and add participants easily
- You can share files of small size
- Offers a comparatively lower quality experience compared to Skype and WhatsApp
- Lacks secure and private communication features
- There may be too many ads that appear on this platform
7. WeChat
WeChat is a leading international video call app in China. This tool can make calls, send messages, book hotels, flights, etc. Not only this, but you can also configure this app with your emails and send and receive emails through this platform.
The tool includes several social media features, ‘Moments,’ where users can share pictures, and their friends can like or comment.
Key Features
- WeChat Channels And Livestream
- Messaging and Calling
- WeChat Location Sharing
- QR Codes
- WeChat Search Engine
- WeChat Moments/News Feed
Pricing
- While WeChat is free, there is an annual fee of $99 for verifying Official Accounts, typically done through phone verification.
Compatibility
- WeChat is compatible with Windows, Mac, Web, Android, and iOS.
Pros and Cons
- Live chat feature to send instant messages
- You can also initiate conversations with strangers with various options such as shake, lift around, and bottle
- Various mini-programs to access editing tools within WeChat
- Listen to voice messages without downloading them
- Easily integrates with different other social media channels
- You can not check if a contact is online or offline
- WeChat does not utilize end-to-end encryption for message sharing, raising security vulnerabilities
- There is a limit on the number of users you can add as friends
8. IMO
IMO is a widely-used free international calling app for Android that gives users an advantage in making high-quality video and audio calls. One of the unique features of this app is that it supports international calls even with a 2G connection. The calls made are encrypted for security purposes.
Besides, IMO, voice and video calls are encrypted for security purposes. And it even supports encrypted calls for up to six participants. Besides calling, you can even exchange messages with your friends anytime and anywhere.
Key Features
- High-quality video and voice calls
- Unlimited messages
- Group video calls
- Free stickers
- Photo and video sharing
- Cloud storage
Pricing
- It is free to use.
Compatibility
- IMO is compatible with Android and iOS
Pros and Cons
- Send text messages and add emojis to make them more expressive
- Block any unknown contact, and record and send instant voice messages
- You can check the last seen of your contacts
- Add up to six participants in a single call
- If the contact is online, you will see “Ringing” while calling them, and if they are offline, you will see “Calling”
- Too many ads
- There is no privacy for your last seen
- You cannot send your location or contact on IMO
- App interface feels like a combination of multiple applications
9. Google Duo
Google Duo
Google Duo is a fully-featured traditional phone service app that works even with low internet bandwidth. The app offers one-to-one calls, group video calls, voice and video messages, photo transfers, etc. Additionally, users can also restrict data usage while using the app.
Key Features
- Fun filters and effects
- Unlimited Messages
- Google Assistant
- 1:1 and group video calling
- Picture-in-Picture (PiP) Mode
- Knock knock feature
Pricing
- It is free to use.
Compatibility
- Google Duo is compatible with Android, iOS, and the Web.
Pros and Cons
- Security of data due to end-to-end encryption
- Seamless sign-in process and requires security validation before logging in
- Send short video and voice messages if a person is unable to pick up your call
- 720p HD video calling services to even people with low internet bandwidth
- Remember device features are available only in the web-based application
- Regular updates are required for iOS users
- Google Duo offers fewer features compared to other similar applications
- The high-quality video calls of Google Duo may consume significant mobile data for those who rely on mobile internet connection
10. Rebtel
Rebtel is a leading calling tool designed to connect people worldwide without Wi-Fi. So now you can call across the border without a high-speed internet connection and hefty call charges.
The tool connects your call directly over the local phone lines. Although call charges do apply for calls, they are quite minimal. A global unlimited pack will cost you around $10/month and be used to make calls to 50 designated countries.
Key Features
- Free international calls
- Call routing
- Automated top-ups
- Local domestic phone numbers
- Auto-connect
- International text messages
Pricing
- The pay-as-you-go rate for Rebtel is 2.78 cents per minute, while the monthly unlimited subscription rate is $10.
Compatibility
- Rebtel is compatible with Android and iOS.
Pros and Cons
- Minimal international calling rates
- Rebtel users can make free calls to other Rebtel users
- It offers affordable call rates for international calls and does not charge any hidden fees for its services
- Rebtel offers cheaper rates for local numbers in select countries
- The sign-up process is straightforward
- International calls can be made without a perfect Wi-Fi connection
- Rebtel does not require an internet connection but some form of connectivity to make calls. Therefore, you won’t be able to use it in a completely remote area without any mobile phone service.
- The app’s design appears outdated, and the user interface can sometimes be confusing
- Rebtel’s app does not support sending text messages, photos, or videos internationally
11. PopTox
PopTox is an international calling app that lets you connect with people and make international calls from a web browser. You don’t need any application or plug-in to make calls. The tool has a carrier relationship with more than 1000 telecom companies worldwide for seamless calling.
Key Features
- Free international calls
- Data encryption
- High call quality
- Customer support
- Multiple payment gateways
Pricing
- Poptox offers pricing plans ranging from $10 to $50 per month.
Compatibility
- PopTox is a web-based free calling app, and you do not require Android or iOS platforms to use it.
Pros and Cons
- No sign-up is required to make phone calls; open the browser over your phone, dial a number, and make free international calls
- Crystal clear voice quality due to alliances with various telecom companies
- Make free calls from a smartphone or computer
- The recipient does not need an app for it to work
- The premium plan offers unlimited calls to 137 countries
- Although the tool offers free phone calls, there is a limit on how many calls you can make in one day
- Using the application significantly drains your device’s battery at a fast rate
- The free version of the app has limitations, particularly regarding the number of calls you can make. A paid subscription is required to enjoy unlimited calls
12. Vonage Mobile
Vonage Mobile
Vonage Mobile is a cloud-based VoIP phone system that helps to connect and manage the business at remote locations seamlessly. The tool provides call center and advanced contact center services for unified communication to handle billions of consumer interactions. You can also use the app to send text messages, make free calls, and chat.
Key Features
- Unlimited Team Messaging
- Unlimited meetings for up to 100
- Multi-level auto attendant
- Two-factor authentication
- Call tracking and call merging
- 24/7 US-based tech support
Pricing
- The pricing starts at $19.99 per month and increases to $39.99 per line.
Compatibility
- Vonage Mobile app is compatible with iOS and Android and can be used on smartphones, tablets, and even desktops.
Pros and Cons
- Exceptional voice quality during calls with unlimited calling and texting
- The application offers an easy setup process and a user-friendly interface
- The service guarantees an impressive 99.999% uptime
- Keep the same phone numbers even if you move to different locations
- Versatile and can be expanded to meet the needs of a growing business
- The quality of calls greatly depends on the internet bandwidth that you are using
- Users may encounter numerous add-on fees for features included in other VoIP provider plans
- The quality of customer service provided can be inconsistent or unpredictable
- The meeting capacity for both audio and video conferences is relatively small
13. Voxofon
Voxofon was launched in 2008 and is among the first apps to offer free international calls. The tool works on mobile as well as desktops. You can also use this app to send and receive images, text messages, videos, etc. You can even call international cell phone numbers and landlines using Voxofon.
Key Features
- Complimentary call credit
- Global support
- Cross platform support
- Call landlines and feature phones
- Share rich multimedia
Pricing
- Voxofon charges rates for text/call services in the United States, ranging from 0.9¢ to 1.3¢.
Compatibility
- Voxofon is compatible with Android, iOS, and desktops.
Pros and Cons
- Low cost as compared to other counterparts
- Excellent voice quality over international calls
- Send text, images, and videos
- Make cheap international calls directly on phone numbers and landlines
- Make payment to get credits quickly to make direct calls
- Customers encounter difficulties when making payments and purchasing phone credits
- The service tends to overcharge for credits, leading to potential financial inconveniences
- The app relies solely on data for making calls, limiting options for users without internet access
14. Phone.com
Phone.com is one of the best VoIP phone systems that can be effectively utilized for remote working. This application provides many features that are a basic necessity of modern business. Calling through this platform is very easy, with various features such as Do Not Disturb, custom local numbers for marketing, etc.
Key Features
- Audio Conferencing
- Call Analytics and call Blocking
- Call conferencing
- Dial-by-name directory
- Hold music
- Free number porting
- Click to call and secure call transfer
Pricing
- Phone.com‘s pricing plans range from $11.99 to $23.99 per month per user when billed monthly.
Compatibility
- Phone.com is compatible with Android and iOS.
Pros and Cons
- You get to choose from a variety of international numbers and local numbers
- Customer support is very helpful and knowledgeable
- Intuitively designed user interface
- Features can be expanded as per the needs of a business
- Audio and video call conferencing to make remote working easier
- Call connection depends on internet quality
- Lack of Google Chrome extension
- Limited options for integrating with other apps within the platform
- The lead-in plan offers limited features compared to higher-tier plans
- The app has limited capabilities for video conferencing
15. TextNow
TextNow is an international free call app that can make international calls to over 230 countries. You can use this platform to make online calls and text messages.
You can make calls over Wi-Fi or purchase a suitable plan without an internet connection. Also, you get a free phone number that can be used for professional purposes.
Key Features
- Free calling and texting over Wi-Fi
- Conference calling
- Voicemail
- Free phone number
- Call forwarding
- Emojis and stickers
- Caller ID
Pricing
- The pricing for TextNow’s plan starts at $8.99 per month.
Compatibility
- TextNow is compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac OS X.
Pros and Cons
- Unified inbox to get all the messages in one place
- The calling process is effortless
- Remove ads by subscribing to paid plans
- Passcode feature to secure messages
- Floating chat feature to get quick access
- There are many ads in the free version, and you need to upgrade to a premium version to stop ads
- There is a limited range of available phone selection options, potentially restricting user choices
- The voice quality is occasionally subpar and may not always meet expectations
- The service becomes costly as users consume more data, potentially leading to higher expenses
Final Words
These international calling apps let you make calls abroad and provide various features such as image and video sharing, call forwarding, and call recording. Also, many features can be expanded per your business’s changing needs.
So, which free international call app is the best for you?
Choose a perfect app from the above list of 15 apps and explore the full features. Tell us in the comment section which one you would consider using from this list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the best free international calling apps, like Skype, WhatApp, Google Duo, IMO, etc., are completely free to make international calls. You can use these international calling apps for free as they don’t require any money to start.
Yes, certain free international call apps like Skype and Google Voice provide the capability to call landline numbers. For instance, with Skype Credit, users can make calls to standard landlines, mobile numbers worldwide, and even satellite phones like Inmarsat.
The availability of the free international call app may vary depending on the device. Reviewing the app's compatibility with your device before use is suggested.
Yes, many free international calling apps allow you to make group calls. Some of the popular options that support group calling include WhatsApp, Skype, Viber, LINE, etc., Also, it is advisable to check the features and capabilities of your specific app to determine if it supports group calls
Some of the most secure free international calling apps are WhatsApp, Facetime, and LINE. They all use end-to-end encryption, open security protocols, require authentication, and have a minimum of reported vulnerabilities.
However, no app can be 100% secure, so you should use discretion in what personal details you share over any public internet service. The level of security for calls on a free international call app can vary depending on the app and its features.
To safeguard your calls against unauthorized access, conducting thorough research and selecting apps prioritizing robust security measures, such as end-to-end encryption, is advisable. By opting for such apps, you can ensure that your conversations remain protected and confidential. Reading through the app's privacy policy and security features will provide more information on how your calls are protected.
Hiba is an accomplished specialist in writing for Software as a Service (SaaS) and has extensive experience crafting compelling and informative content. With over two years of experience, she has honed her skills in producing various forms of content, including articles, blog posts, and more, all centered around SaaS. Hiba is dedicated to sharing her insights to assist businesses in leveraging SaaS to achieve growth and success.
