WiFi calling and/or messaging overseas

[stanan]

I am going to Spain in the fall with my brothers. My Virgin Mobile android (gingerbread) phone will not have service. I will need to rely on some type of WiFi communication. We'll be arriving at the Barcelona airport separately and I would like the others to be able to contact me, assuming I can connect to the airport WiFi. I do have a Google voice number but after researching I am still unsure if they can call or text me. They have US phones and will be arranging some type of international plan for the trip.

WiFi calling would be nice but not required. I would at least like some type of messaging. We could all download the same app to facilitate communication but it would also need to be available for a windows phone and an iPhone.

Are there any recommendations for apps that will work overseas?

Thank you.

 

[sdrawkcab25]

off the top of my head, i'd say skype is your best/easist solution. does video/voice/messaging over wifi only connections. it is free for all skype to skype calls.

Free Skype internet calls and cheap calls to phones online - Skype

 

[gtbarry]

Another vote for Skype. I think it is the only option for everything you want (wifi calls and messaging) that works on all three platforms you mentioned: windows, apple and Android.

 

[miskairal]

Skype is telling me I have to buy Skype credit to send an SMS

 

[sdrawkcab25]

Skype is telling me I have to buy Skype credit to send an SMS

you do need credit to send SMS, but you send messages to any skype name for free.

 

[sleeco]

Have a look @ viber for wifi phone calls etc, you must all have it on your phones

 

[Mr. Lucky]

Google Voice can be made to work over wifi with the GrooVe IP app, but it won't do anything for SMS. I think the simplest solution is Tango.

 

[gtbarry]

Skype is telling me I have to buy Skype credit to send an SMS

skype to skype is always free. Whether it's an instant message, voice call or video call. As long as you are both using skype, it won't matter if you are trying to connect with someone using a computer or tablet or phone or any platform (Windows, Android, apple, etc.)

But you can pay skype to send text messages or make phone calls to regular phones (mobile or land).

 

[stanan]

Thank you for the responses and the great suggestions! I'll have to do some more research to determine what will work best for me. At least you have narrowed it down for me.

Thanks!