By now, VoIP is certainly not a new technology. We started seeing VoIP come into the communications space somewhere around the mid-90s, and since its inception, it has managed to help businesses and consumers save some bucks on their phone bills.
VoIP services already include mechanisms for forwarding voicemail to email and other features used in a UC system. With VoIP, there is more scalability and better integration than with UC-type products that rely on traditional phone services.
The growing adoption of VoIP makes it easier for companies to employ more features in their phone systems. The increasing recognition of a need for efficiency with lower costs within an organization is an influence that's helping to drive the acceptance of VoIP in the business world.
There are different ways to make VoIP calls. Each requires an Internet connection, though depending on the service, you can make calls either via a computer, your mobile or even using your landline.
The best route for you depends on which service your friends/family use, because using the same as them will get you free calls. There are different methods to make free VoIP calls, including smartphone-to-smartphone, computer-to-computer, and tablet/computer-to-phone. When using VoIP for free calls, providers are pretty similar, and the best one for you is really a personal preference. The crucial thing is to ensure you both have the same app.
So, what apps are available?
Skype (News - Alert)
Skype is an application software that allows users to use video chat and voice calls from computers, tablets and mobile devices via the Internet to other devices.
Viber
Viber is a mobile application that allows you to make phone calls and send text messages to all other Viber users for free.
Social media, like Facebook (News - Alert) calling
Video calling allows you to talk to your friends face to face. All you need to do is complete a quick, one-time setup, and you're ready to call any friend on Facebook.
For business users, depending on a VoIP service provider is a better way to go. With VoIP, new applications are being developed all the time. Web-enabled call centers, remote telecommuting, collaborative white boarding and even applications for personal productivity such as the unified messaging and “follow me” services make VoIP a multifaceted solution.
Given all of its features and how said features have improved business function, it’s no wonder VoIP has managed to evolve in many of its forms, from free applications to inexpensive services.
Edited by Alisen Downey