How to Turn Your iPod Touch Into a Phone

How to make free phone calls on your Apple iPod touch

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.
lifewire's editorial guidelines
Updated on April 24, 2022
Reviewed by
Jon Fisher
Jon Fisher headshot
Reviewed by Jon Fisher
  • Wichita Technical Institute
Jonathan Fisher is a CompTIA certified technologist with more than 6 years' experience writing for publications like TechNorms and Help Desk Geek.
lifewire's editorial guidelines

What to Know

  • Be in range of an internet-connected Wi-Fi network. Download a VoIP app like Skype or Facebook Messenger.
  • Alternatively, create an account with an SIP provider. This will give you an SIP address. Download the provider's app.

This article explains how to turn your iPod Touch into a phone using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), as well as which audio accessories are compatible.

Apple ended production of the iPod Touch in May 2022, but these instructions still apply.

How to Turn Your iPod Touch Into a Phone

The iPod Touch can't connect to a cellular network through a SIM card or otherwise, but it connects to the internet and has audio input and output. As long as you're within range of an internet-connected Wi-Fi network, you can make calls on your iPod to any number at low or no cost using VoIP.

Using VoIP Smartphone Apps: A handful of the many online communication apps are compatible with the iPod Touch. Here are some to try: 

  • Skype: The oldest of the bunch, it offers free voice calls and instant messaging, along with a long list of features. You can also make international calls at a low cost.
  • Facebook Messenger: Facebook Messenger offers an iPod Touch version that enables calls.
  • Viber: With roughly the same features as WhatsApp, Viber offers paid calls to any number worldwide.

Using SIP: SIP is a type of VoIP that's a great way to convert your iPod Touch into a phone. Create a free account at one of the many SIP providers, which will also give you a SIP address. This acts like a phone number. Then, download the provider's app and configure it as directed. A few good candidates include Bria, among the best on the market; Zoiper; and MobileVoIP.

WhatsApp, the enormously popular communication app, does not offer a version for the iPod Touch.

Audio 

Not all iPod Touch devices are compatible with conventional earphones and headphones. You must have the appropriate compatible accessories. You can use the built-in microphone and speakers of the device; add Apple EarPods or similar ear buds or headphones that incorporate a mic for privacy.

Was this page helpful?