Make free (or cheap) calls worldwide over the Internet.
Skype lets you use ordinary computer accessories to make free voice-over-Internet and video calls to other Skype users anywhere in the world. For voice calls, you need some kind of microphone and sound system. The tabbed interface offers easy access to Skype features. You also get access to public chat environments and an Extras Manager for third-party add-ons such as games, personalization features, and business-oriented tools. Optional toolbars for Firefox, Google, Outlook, and Office users make it possible to directly dial numbers in Web pages and e-mail with a click.
Even if you don't know anyone who uses Skype, the service still offers significant cost benefits over traditional telephony. The SkypeOut feature lets you make calls to regular landline or mobile phones for far less than a typical phone company charges. Currently, Skype offers a SkypeOut Global Rate of 0.017 € per minute for calls to landlines in approximately 30 of its most popular calling destinations worldwide, and even to mobile phones in several of these locations, though mobile calls are typically more expensive. To fund SkypeOut calls, you buy credit in advance. The minimum purchase is 10 €.
Another service from Skype is SkypeIn. SkypeIn assigns you a phone number that's local to your callers no matter where you are. Say your whole family lives in the United Kingdom, but you're working in Spain. Some of these relatives don't even have e-mail. Set up a SkypeIn number that's local to your family and they can call you for free. Currently, this service costs $12 for three months or $38 per year |
