Facebook has updated Messenger for iOS with VoIP calling features in the United States. Previously, a similar feature was being tested in Canada. This feature allows users to call other Facebook users who are using the Messenger app for free. If a friend is using the the Facebook Messenger app, you should see a “Free Call” button next to his or her name when viewing his or her contact information in the Facebook Messenger application. Unfortunately, you cannot use Facebook Messenger to call cell phones or landline phones at this point in time.
I’m excited to give Facebook Messenger’s VoIP calling a try. I think it’ll be a lot more useful to me than Skype or Fring in terms of mobile calling as pretty much all of my friends have a Facebook account and a smartphone or iPod touch. Since there’s no special process involved in setting up the service, even your grandmother will be able to chat with you for free via her smartphone and Facebook account.
Calling over Facebook Messenger will work over 3G, 4G, 4G LTE and Wi-Fi networks. The service is completely free, though it will use a ton of cellular data, so use it lightly if you’re on a small data plan.
Image Credit: Engadget
