Help Skype Calling

[elemteacher2be]

I was wondering how calling through Skype works on phones?

Do you have to be connected to WiFi for it to work? What if it's Skype to phone call? Does it use up regular minutes?

What about Google Voice, will that use up plan minutes?

Thanks!

 

[NunyaBidnez]

In the US, Skype is restricted to WiFi only but you can use it on 3G with international carriers. Skype will not use up your minutes because it runs on your data connection, except for the Verizon Skype app which does use up minutes and works similar to a calling card in that it calls up a local number and forwards the call automatically to an international phone at a reduced fee. I am not sure if Verizon customers are restricted in any way from downloading the data only Skype app from the Android Market, so you'll have to post that question in the Verizon section of the forum.

Google Voice is not a VoIP service and the Android app works very similar to the Verizon specific Skype app except it can also be used for domestic calls. The benefits of Google Voice are having one number that rings all your phones, better voicemail features, cheap international calls, and free text messaging (MMS not supported yet). If you'd like to know more about Google Voices features, you can visit the Google Voice YouTube page.