In today’s interconnected world, staying in touch with loved ones across the globe has become easier than ever. With the rise of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, numerous communication apps have emerged, offering users a cost-effective alternative to traditional phone calls. One such popular app is Viber, which boasts over a billion registered users worldwide. But the question remains: is Viber free for international calls? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of Viber’s pricing model, exploring the costs associated with making international calls and what you can expect from this popular communication platform.
Understanding Viber’s Pricing Model
Viber is a freemium service, meaning that it offers both free and paid features. The app’s primary function is to provide users with a platform for making voice and video calls, sending messages, and sharing media files. While Viber-to-Viber calls are generally free, the app’s pricing model becomes more complex when it comes to international calls.
Viber-to-Viber Calls: The Free Option
When you make a call from Viber to another Viber user, the call is free, regardless of the recipient’s location. This is because Viber uses the internet to connect calls, bypassing traditional phone networks. As long as both parties have a stable internet connection and the Viber app installed on their devices, they can enjoy unlimited free calls.
However, things get more complicated when you try to call a non-Viber user or a landline number.
Viber Out: The Paid Option
Viber Out is a feature that allows users to make calls to non-Viber numbers, including landlines and mobile phones. This feature is not free, and users need to purchase credits or subscribe to a calling plan to make Viber Out calls.
The cost of Viber Out calls varies depending on the destination country and the type of number you’re calling. Viber offers competitive rates, but they can still add up, especially if you make frequent international calls.
Viber Out Rates: A Closer Look
Viber Out rates are generally lower than traditional phone call rates, but they can vary significantly depending on the country you’re calling. Here’s a rough breakdown of Viber Out rates:
| Destination | Rate per minute |
| — | — |
| United States | $0.015 |
| United Kingdom | $0.021 |
| Australia | $0.025 |
| India | $0.012 |
Keep in mind that these rates are subject to change and may not reflect the current pricing. It’s always a good idea to check Viber’s website for the latest rates and promotions.
Alternatives To Viber For International Calls
While Viber is a popular choice for international calls, it’s not the only option available. Other communication apps, such as WhatsApp, Skype, and Facebook Messenger, also offer voice and video calling features.
WhatsApp: A Viable Alternative
WhatsApp is another popular messaging app that offers free voice and video calls to other WhatsApp users. Like Viber, WhatsApp uses the internet to connect calls, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional phone calls.
However, WhatsApp does not offer a feature similar to Viber Out, which means you can’t use the app to call non-WhatsApp numbers.
Skype: A Paid Option With More Features
Skype is a popular communication platform that offers a range of features, including voice and video calls, screen sharing, and group calls. While Skype-to-Skype calls are free, the app also offers a paid feature called Skype Credit, which allows users to make calls to non-Skype numbers.
Skype Credit rates are generally higher than Viber Out rates, but the app offers more features and a wider range of calling options.
Conclusion
While Viber is not entirely free for international calls, it does offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional phone calls. Viber-to-Viber calls are free, and the app’s Viber Out feature allows users to make calls to non-Viber numbers at competitive rates.
Ultimately, whether or not Viber is the best option for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a free communication app with a wide range of features, Viber is definitely worth considering. However, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive communication platform with a wider range of calling options, you may want to explore alternative apps like Skype or WhatsApp.
By understanding Viber’s pricing model and features, you can make an informed decision about whether or not this popular communication app is right for you.
What Is Viber And How Does It Work?
Viber is a popular messaging and voice-over-internet protocol (VoIP) app that allows users to make free international calls, send messages, and share media files with other Viber users. The app uses the internet to connect calls, rather than traditional phone networks, which reduces the cost of making international calls.
To use Viber, users need to download and install the app on their smartphone or computer, and then create an account using their phone number or email address. Once registered, users can search for and connect with other Viber users, and start making calls, sending messages, and sharing files.
Is Viber Really Free For International Calls?
Viber is free to download and use, and it offers free international calls to other Viber users. However, there are some limitations and potential costs to consider. For example, Viber requires a stable internet connection to work, and users may incur data charges from their internet service provider if they are not connected to a Wi-Fi network.
Additionally, Viber offers a feature called Viber Out, which allows users to make calls to non-Viber users, including landline and mobile phones. However, this feature is not free, and users need to purchase credits or a subscription to use it.
What Are The Costs Associated With Viber International Calls?
The costs associated with Viber international calls depend on the type of call being made. Calls to other Viber users are free, but calls to non-Viber users using Viber Out require credits or a subscription. The cost of Viber Out credits varies depending on the country being called, and users can check the Viber website for the latest rates.
In addition to the cost of Viber Out credits, users may also incur data charges from their internet service provider if they are not connected to a Wi-Fi network. However, these charges are typically minimal, and Viber is generally a cost-effective way to make international calls.
How Does Viber Out Work?
Viber Out is a feature that allows Viber users to make calls to non-Viber users, including landline and mobile phones. To use Viber Out, users need to purchase credits or a subscription, which can be done through the Viber app or website. Once credits or a subscription are purchased, users can dial the phone number of the person they want to call, and Viber will connect the call.
Viber Out uses a combination of VoIP and traditional phone networks to connect calls. When a user makes a Viber Out call, the call is routed through Viber’s servers and then connected to the traditional phone network, allowing the user to reach non-Viber users.
Can I Use Viber To Make Emergency Calls?
Viber is not designed for making emergency calls, and users should not rely on the app in emergency situations. Viber does not have the ability to connect calls to emergency services, such as 911 in the US, and users may not be able to get help in a timely manner.
In emergency situations, users should always call the local emergency number or use a traditional phone to get help. Viber is designed for personal and social use, and users should not rely on it for critical or emergency communications.
Is Viber Secure And Private?
Viber takes the security and privacy of its users seriously, and the app uses end-to-end encryption to protect calls and messages. This means that only the sender and recipient can read or listen to the content of messages and calls, and Viber cannot access or intercept the communication.
However, as with any online service, there are potential risks to consider. Users should be cautious when sharing personal or sensitive information over Viber, and they should only connect with people they trust. Additionally, users should keep their Viber app and operating system up to date to ensure they have the latest security patches and features.
Can I Use Viber On Multiple Devices?
Yes, Viber allows users to use the app on multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. Users can download and install the Viber app on multiple devices, and then sync their account across all devices using their phone number or email address.
Once synced, users can access their Viber account and make calls, send messages, and share files from any of their connected devices. This makes it easy to stay connected with friends and family, regardless of which device you are using.