It’s more crucial than ever to maintain relationships with friends and family who live all over the world. Whether you have loved ones living under or are conducting business with Australian partners, knowing how to call Australia from the UK for free can save you a significant amount of money. This guide will walk you through various methods and tools to make free calls to Australia, ensuring you stay connected without breaking the bank.
Traditional Calling Methods
In the past, making international calls often meant racking up hefty phone bills. Landline and mobile rates for calling Australia from the UK can be exorbitant, with costs varying depending on your provider. International calling cards were a popular alternative, offering lower rates but still requiring purchase and sometimes incurring connection fees.
How to call Australia from the UK for free
The Rise of Free Communication Apps
The evolution of digital communication has revolutionised how we connect with others. Free communication apps have become a staple in keeping in touch with people worldwide, providing a cost-effective and often more convenient way to make international calls. These apps use the internet to transmit voice data, bypassing traditional phone networks and their associated charges.
Using VoIP Services
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services allow you to make voice calls using a broadband internet connection instead of a regular phone line. VoIP converts your voice into a digital signal that travels over the internet, making it possible to call anywhere in the world for free or at a significantly reduced cost.
Popular VoIP Services for Free Calls to Australia
Skype: One of the most well-known VoIP services, Skype offers free voice and video calls to other Skype users worldwide. It’s user-friendly and widely used, making it a reliable option for international communication.
WhatsApp: With its robust messaging platform, WhatsApp also supports free voice and video calls to other WhatsApp users. It’s a popular choice due to its widespread usage and easy integration with your phone’s contact list.
Viber: Similar to WhatsApp, Viber provides free calls, messaging, and video chat services. It also offers Viber Out, which allows calls to non-Viber users at competitive rates.
Google Voice: Although less well-known, Google Voice offers inexpensive international calling rates in addition to free calls to other Google Voice subscribers. It’s a versatile option, especially if you’re already using other Google services.
Setting Up Skype for Free Calls
- Download and Install Skype: Visit the Skype website or your device’s app store to download and install Skype.
- Create an Account: Use your email address to register for a free account.
- Add Contacts: Search for and add your contacts who also use Skype.
- Make Free Calls: Click on a contact and select the call button to start a voice or video call.
Making Free Calls with WhatsApp
- Download WhatsApp: Install WhatsApp from your app store.
- Set Up Your Account: Register with your phone number and complete the setup process.
- Add Contacts: WhatsApp syncs with your phone’s contact list, automatically adding contacts who use WhatsApp.
- Make Calls: Open a chat with a contact and tap the call button for voice or video calls.
Using Viber for Free Calls
- Download Viber: Install the Viber app from your app store.
- Register: Sign up using your phone number.
- Sync Contacts: Viber will sync with your phone’s contacts.
- Start Calling: Open a chat and tap the call button to make a free voice or video call.
Google Voice: A Lesser-Known Option
- Access Google Voice: Visit the Google Voice website and sign in with your Google account.
- Set Up Your Number: Follow the instructions to set up your Google Voice number.
- Add Contacts: Import contacts or manually add them.
- Make Calls: Click on a contact and use the call feature to make a voice call.
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Other Free Communication Apps
Facebook Messenger: Offers free voice and video calls to other Messenger users. It’s widely used and integrates seamlessly with your Facebook contacts.
Telegram: Known for its security features, Telegram also supports free voice calls.
Zoom: While primarily a video conferencing tool, Zoom allows for free one-on-one calls, making it a versatile option for personal and professional use.
Ensuring Good Call Quality
A stable internet connection is crucial for good call quality. Use a reliable Wi-Fi connection or ensure you have a strong mobile data signal. Close other apps that might be using bandwidth, and if possible, use a wired connection for even better stability.
Security and Privacy Considerations
While free communication apps are convenient, it’s essential to consider security and privacy. Ensure you’re using reputable apps, keep your software updated, and use strong, unique passwords. Be cautious about sharing personal information and verify the identity of contacts before sharing sensitive data.
Alternative Methods for Free Calls
Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram often have built-in messaging and calling features. Email and messaging services can also be used to maintain regular communication without cost.
Combining Methods for Better Connectivity
Sometimes, using multiple apps and services can ensure better connectivity. For instance, you might use WhatsApp for casual chats and Zoom for more formal conversations. Finding what works best for you and your contacts can enhance your communication experience.
More Read: Using a UK SIM Card in India: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers
Conclusion
Staying connected with loved ones or business partners in Australia from the UK doesn’t have to be expensive. With the rise of free communication apps and VoIP services, making international calls has never been easier or more affordable. Embrace these technologies, and you’ll find that staying in touch is both simple and cost-effective.
FAQs
Can I call Australia for free?
Yes, using apps like Skype, WhatsApp, and Viber, you can call Australia for free as long as both parties have an internet connection and the same app installed.
Which app is the greatest for making free calls abroad?
The ideal app will vary based on your requirements and tastes.
Skype, WhatsApp, and Viber are all excellent choices, each offering unique features and widespread usage.
How do I ensure my calls are secure?
Use reputable apps, keep your software updated, and use strong passwords. Be mindful of sharing personal information and verify contacts’ identities.
Are there any hidden charges with these apps?
Most apps are free to use for calls to other users of the same app. However, charges may apply if you call non-users or use premium features.
Can I use these apps on any device?
Yes, these apps are available on multiple platforms, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, ensuring you can stay connected regardless of your device.
