Top 10: Free VoIP services for business

Updated: July 31, 2023

Free VoIP services are communication solutions that allow users to make voice and video calls over the internet without incurring traditional telephone charges. These services utilize Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to transmit audio and video data in real-time, making communication more accessible and cost-effective. Popular free VoIP services include Skype, Google Meet, and WhatsApp, which offer free voice and video calls to other users on the same platform. These services often support instant messaging, file sharing, and conference calling, providing a comprehensive communication experience. While free VoIP services may have limitations compared to paid alternatives, they serve as a practical option for individuals and businesses seeking to stay connected globally without the burden of traditional phone bills. Some of the most popular free VoIP services are listed below.

See also: Top 10 VoIP services

2014. Microsoft launches Skype for Web



Skype has introduced a new beta version that brings its instant messaging, voice, and video chat service directly to the browser. Currently, users need to install a small plug-in to access voice and video calls, but Microsoft has promised to implement Real-Time Communications (RTC) support, enabling plug-in-free usage in the future. Skype for Web is compatible with Chrome (Windows), Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Safari. Although Chromebooks and non-Windows platforms can utilize Skype for Web for instant messaging, voice and video capabilities are not yet available for them due to the plugin's configuration limitations. Previously, Skype had already made its way to the web through a plug-in for Outlook.com, which was globally launched earlier this year. This plug-in facilitated text, video, and voice chat within the company's web-based email inbox service.


2013. Viber now can call landline and mobile phones



Despite Microsoft's hands-off approach to Skype, the majority of people continue to rely on it. However, even the slightest misstep from Microsoft could pave the way for alternative services vying to replace Skype as the de facto standard for internet communications. Leading the pack is Viber. This service has gained significant popularity, boasting over 200 million users, thanks to its mobile-first strategy and simple authorization via mobile numbers. Currently, Viber and Skype offer virtually identical features. Recently, Viber addressed one of its remaining gaps by introducing the ability to make calls to landline and mobile phones at affordable rates, which are slightly lower than Skype's. For instance, calls to Indian landlines cost 2.5 cents (4.5 cents to mobile phones), calls to Mexico cost 2.3 cents (9.9 cents to mobile phones), calls to all China numbers cost 2.3 cents, and calls to the U.K. cost 1.9 cents (5.9 cents to mobile phones). This new feature is available on Android, iPhone, and Viber desktop (PC and Mac) platforms.


2008. Fring VOIP and chat client goes mainstream



The iPhone app Fring , which acts as a VOIP client for Skype and other internet phone networks, as well as a voice and chat interface into IM networks like AIM and Yahoo, ***