Why Pay for International Calls When You Can Talk for Free?

Are you still paying for international calls and expensive monthly calling plans? If so, you're not alone. Many consumers are simply unaware of the tremendous savings that they can take advantage of by switching to a VoIP provider for their long distance phone service.

What's VoIP?

Short for Voice over Internet Protocol, VoIP is an extremely easy-to-use alternative to traditional phone service that enables you to make calls to anywhere in the world through the Internet. By simply downloading VoIP software from a provider, you will have the ability to make both domestic and international calls without having to worry about an expensive phone bill at the end of the month.

If you have a computer with a built-in microphone and speakers and an internet connection, there is no additional equipment required. Simply dial from your computer and start making calls to your friends and family. Yes, it's that simple! The connection quality of VoIP calls is equal to or exceeds that of land lines, and calls within the United States and many global destinations are free.

Where Do I Find a VoIP Provider?

There are many VoIP service providers currently available to consumers. The most recognized is Skype which specializes in offering free PC-to-PC calls and discounted rates for PC-to-landlines and PC-to-mobile phones.

For consumers that want to make free calls to mobile and land line phones, MediaRing Talk is a particularly smart choice. Like Skype, they have free PC-to-PC calls, but they also give their customers the flexibility to call landlines and mobile phones in the United States, Canada, China, Singapore, and Hong Kong for free. As well, they have free PC to phone calling to the UK, Australia, and Taiwan. Calling rates to other destinations are competitive with Skype and far superior to those offered by most traditional phone service providers.

What about Other Features?

Some VoIP providers strictly provide free and discounted calls and nothing else. However, others such as Skype and MediaRing Talk do offer a variety of other useful tools that enhance their long distance calling services.

Skype has a bundled service plan that includes voicemail, call forwarding, text messaging, and an online number to allow others to call you from a regular phone to reach you on Skype.

MediaRing Talk provides users with free instant messaging with presence and multi-user voice conferencing that enables the setup of conference calls with up to five participants.

Is There a Catch?

No, there's no catch to VoIP. It's simply the future of telecommunications that smart consumers can take advantage of now. Most providers such as Skype generate income from paid subscriptions for bundled services. MediaRing Talk uses a business model that generates income mostly through advertising to let users talk for free. Both companies are competing against the traditional phone companies and rapidly acquiring new customers every day because of their innovative technology and ability to offer unbeatable prices and service.