Top 5 Skype Alternatives

by Startacus Admin
Top 5 Skype Alternatives
Skype has ruled the roost for a long time in relation to free calling, be it video or voice (VoIP). However with more and more competitors coming out all the time, the good thing is we are all starting to have more and more choice.
Here are a few of the best Skype alternatives.
1. Google Talk - Google launched this a while ago, and after a relatively rocky start, have now been making more headway with it recently . With Google+ launching 'Hangouts' within their social platform, it's a great way to get together to talk to several folks at any one time. Available on your desktop or mobile.
2. Viber - The guys at Viber are slowly taking over the world. Their free application is available on all the big players in the mobile world; iOS, Android, Blackberry & Windows. Offering free calls to and from other Viber users, coupled with text messaging Viber to Viber, it's the whole package.
3. FaceTime - An Apple only production, FaceTime allows you to video call someone else with either a Mac or iOS device (iPhone or iPod touch). Admittedly it is great quality, but is sadly a little restrictive if you're not on the Apple train.
4. WhatsApp Messenger - Not really a calling app, but this little service allows messages, pictures, audio and video to be sent to other WhatsApp users. It’s free for a year, then costs $0.99 a year thereafter. A brilliant alternative to actually talking altogether. Like Viber, it is also available on all the big mobile platforms.
5. Fring - This one may not very popular, but it is just as powerful as the rest of the pack. It offers free video calling, texting and some file sharing thrown in for good measure. Fring also allows conference calling, much like Google’s 'HangOut' feature.
A word of warning? Always remember to check with your mobile provider about data allowance on your plan; as these little chaps can use quite a bit of data. However, if you have WiFi (with an unlimited plan) or are in a WiFi area, then fill your boots.
Do you use a different VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), or is Skype still king of the callers? Let the debates begin - over at the forum.
Subscribe to our newsletter
If you would like to receive our startup themed newsletter, full of the latest startup opportunities, events, news, stories, tips and advice, then sign up here.
Tobin Capital continues to expand its portfolio by investing in pop-up marketplace Sook, the startup on a mission to revolutionise the high street.

Sodexo and L Marks open call for applications from innovative startups and scaleups to join their inaugural Sodexo Healthcare and Seniors Accelerator.

The lowdown on FuturePlus, the startup that's on a mission to make sustainability accessible, achievable and affordable for all businesses.

John McLachlan, author and co-founder of Monkey Puzzle Training & Consultancy examines the differences between action-oriented and reflective leaders and which approach is best.

The fitness app that's not just about physical fitness; GoJoe helps employers to engage, motivate and connect their people across all pillars of wellbeing.

Now in its fifth year, North West England water firm United Utilities opens call for Innovation Lab, its pioneering ideas incubation programme.

Not-for-profit OneTech has spunout from Capital Enterprise to expand its offering and continue its mission of creating a more equitable, diverse and supported startup ecosystem.

London-based startup Deep Render tackles the internet’s data and bandwidth challenges via its innovative AI-powered file compression technology.

The lowdown on Dublin-based startup and NUI Maynooth spin-out Neuromod Devices and its innovative evidence-based bimodal neuromodulation treatment for chronic tinnitus.

With the clear shift towards generative AI, Richard Hayes, search director at digital marketing agency Catalyst explores what it means for SEO...
Published on: 14th August 2012
If you would like to enable commenting via your Startacus account, please enable Disqus functionality in your Account Settings.







- Startup Sook Receives Investment from Tobin Capital 24th May 2023 Tobin Capital continues to expand its portfolio by investing in pop-up marketplace Sook, the startup on a mission to revolutionise the high street.
- L Marks Seeking Startups and Scaleups for Sodexo Healthcare and Seniors Accelerator 23rd May 2023 Sodexo and L Marks open call for applications from innovative startups and scaleups to join their inaugural Sodexo Healthcare and Seniors Accelerator.
- United Utilities Innovation Lab launches call-out for innovative ideas for fifth programme 18th May 2023 Now in its fifth year, North West England water firm United Utilities opens call for Innovation Lab, its pioneering ideas incubation programme.
- OneTech Spins Out from Capital Enterprise to Support Underserved Communities in Tech Across the UK 18th May 2023 Not-for-profit OneTech has spunout from Capital Enterprise to expand its offering and continue its mission of creating a more equitable, diverse and supported startup ecosystem.