Best Free Calling Apps for iPhone and iPad

These apps can use the internet for calls rather than your carrier's network, so most of these calls will be free

By
Nadeem Unuth
Nadeem Unuth
Freelance Contributor
  • University of Mauritius
Nadeem Unuth is a former freelance contributor to Lifewire who specializes in information and communication technology with a focus on VoIP.
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Updated on August 31, 2023
Reviewed by
Jerrick Leger
Jerrick Leger headshot
Reviewed by Jerrick Leger
Jerrick Leger is a CompTIA-certified IT Specialist with more than 10 years' experience in technical support and IT fields. He is also a systems administrator for an IT firm in Texas serving small businesses.
lifewire's editorial guidelines

When making calls, you aren't limited to your carrier's calling plans (and expensive out-of-country charges). Even worldwide calls can work with these calling apps.

Two things to keep in mind: These apps still use data, so if you are not on an unlimited network (like Wi-Fi), you could still use up your data plan. And, while these apps are free, make sure to read any details to see if some calls might still incur a charge.

These apps are all available for a variety of platforms, including iOS and Android devices and web browsers.

01
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FaceTime

A FaceTime call between an iPhone and an iPad

Apple Inc
What We Like

  • Built into iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.

  • Great quality.

  • Updated regularly as part of OS updates.

What We Don't Like

  • Non-Apple users can't start FaceTime calls.

  • FaceTime app itself is not available for Android and Windows users.

The FaceTime name has become so ubiquitous it's supplanted the word for making a call. Still, it's a call like you'd do if you were calling someone the "old fashioned" way.

Starting with iOS 15, Android and Windows users can be added to FaceTime calls, although they can not start FaceTime calls themselves.

02
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Skype

Call history and call keypad in Skype app for iOS
What We Like

  • Works on nearly every device.

  • Send voice messages, videos, and images.

  • Supports texting and video calling.

What We Don't Like

  • Its many features could be overwhelming to some.

Skype is the service that kicked off the VoIP craze. Skype offers free local and international calls to other Skype users and low-cost plans to any international number of non-Skype users. Many devices support Skype, which also can make HD video calls.

The Skype app is available for iPhone and iPad. It also works with Android, Windows 10 Mobile, Kindle Fire HD, Windows, macOS, Linux, and more. Skype is also accessible from a web browser.

03
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WhatsApp Messenger

Settings and contacts in iOS WhatsApp Messenger
What We Like

  • Supports texting and video calls.

  • Doesn't store communication details on its server.

  • Shares PDFs, spreadsheets, and more.

What We Don't Like

  • No iPad version of the app.

WhatsApp is the most popular VoIP app for mobile devices. According to Meta, which owns the app, WhatsApp has over 1 billion users.

WhatsApp's security focus sets it apart from other internet calling apps. The company says, "Privacy and security are in our DNA." Because end-to-end encryption is enabled, WhatsApp makes sure nobody can spy on your phone calls.

In addition to its iPhone app, WhatsApp is available for Android and Windows Phone devices and Windows and macOS computers. Voice messaging, texting, and file sharing also work through WhatsApp in a browser.

04
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Facebook Messenger

People, Discover, and call tabs in iOS Facebook Messenger app
What We Like

  • Allows group calling.

  • Built-in emojis, GIFs, and stickers.

  • Chat with Facebook friends outside of the Facebook app.

What We Don't Like

  • Supports a limited number of devices.

  • Requires a Facebook account.

If you're one of the billions of people worldwide who use Facebook, you'll like Messenger. The iOS calling app uses the internet to make free voice and video calls, and it can send texts, images, videos, and more to your Facebook friends.

Calling is just a tap away; use names or phone numbers to find your friends on the social networking giant.

In addition to the iOS Messenger calling app for iPhone and iPad, the service is also available for Android devices. The Messenger website supports calls, as well.

05
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Viber Messenger

Call history, call keypad, and Discover tabs in Viber app for iOS
What We Like

  • Clearly marks free-to-call contacts.

  • Lets you send 30-second video messages.

  • Call protection with end-to-end encryption.

What We Don't Like

  • Requires access to a phone number to sign up.

Like others on this list, Viber works with all platforms: iOS, iPadOS, Android, Windows, Linux, and macOS. Once Viber reads your contact list, it will indicate who you can call on Viber for free.

All the apps listed here require a data connection, so while Wi-Fi is free, using a calling app via your data plan uses data. If you have a limited data plan, monitor your consumption and use calling apps sparingly.

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