Back in January, Facebook added a new feature to their Facebook Messenger app that would let you make free voice calls to your Facebook contacts. Initially, this feature was only available in the US and Canada at launch.
Facebook has now rolled out this free voice calls feature to the UK version of the Facebook Messenger app, and you should be able to make voice calls within the app from today.
The free calls use your existing data plan, rather than your actual mobile call allowance, and the calls can be made over 3G and WiFi on your iPhone. You can download the updated version of the app for the UK over at iTunes.
How to Make Free Voice Calls on Facebook Messenger
To make a free voice call using Facebook Messenger, simply open a conversation with the contact you wish to call. Tap on the phone icon located at the top right corner of the screen. This will initiate a voice call using your data connection. The person you are calling will receive a notification and can choose to accept or decline the call. This feature is particularly useful for those who want to save on their mobile call allowance or for international calls, as it bypasses traditional phone networks.
Benefits and Considerations
One of the primary benefits of using Facebook Messenger for voice calls is the cost savings. Since the calls are made using your data plan, you won’t be charged for minutes used, which can be especially advantageous for users with limited call allowances. Additionally, this feature can be a lifesaver for international communication, as it eliminates the often high costs associated with international calling rates.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The quality of the call can vary depending on the strength and stability of your data connection. Calls made over a strong WiFi connection are generally clearer and more reliable than those made over a 3G network. It’s also important to be aware of your data usage, as frequent or long calls can consume a significant amount of data, potentially leading to additional charges if you exceed your data plan limits.
Another aspect to consider is privacy and security. While Facebook Messenger uses encryption to protect your conversations, it’s always wise to be cautious about sharing sensitive information over any communication platform.
Expanding Accessibility
The rollout of this feature to the UK is part of Facebook’s broader strategy to make communication more accessible and convenient for its global user base. By enabling free voice calls, Facebook is not only enhancing the functionality of its Messenger app but also positioning itself as a more comprehensive communication tool. This move is likely to attract more users to the platform, as it offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional phone calls.
In addition to voice calls, Facebook Messenger also supports video calls, text messaging, and multimedia sharing, making it a versatile tool for staying connected with friends and family. The integration of these features into a single app simplifies the user experience and reduces the need for multiple communication apps.
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see further enhancements and new features added to Facebook Messenger and other communication platforms. These advancements will likely focus on improving call quality, expanding accessibility, and integrating with other services to provide a seamless and comprehensive communication experience.
Source Engadget
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