Can you make voice calls on TextNow?
What is TextNow?
TextNow is a free messaging and calling app that works over WiFi or mobile data. Rather than using paid cellular minutes, TextNow relies on internet connectivity to place calls and send texts for free. Users can either use their existing phone number with the app, or TextNow can provide them with a free US phone number to use.[1]
The TextNow app is available for both iOS and Android devices. It allows users to call and text for free over WiFi to any number in the US and Canada. The app assigns each user a real phone number to use for calling and texting.
Can You Make Voice Calls?
Yes, TextNow supports voice calling through their app. To make a call, simply open up the TextNow app and tap on the phone icon in the upper right corner. This will bring up the dialer page where you can enter a phone number and connect your call
To make and receive calls through TextNow, you’ll need a stable internet connection on your mobile device or computer. As long as you have a WiFi or cellular data connection, you can place calls to any number in the US and Canada completely free of charge. Calls to other international numbers are available at low rates.
Thanks to Voice over IP (VoIP) technology, TextNow provides free calling capabilities to anyone with an internet connection. Calls made through the app are transmitted as data rather than through a cellular network. As long as you maintain a stable connection, call quality is comparable to a standard cell phone call.
Call Quality
The call quality on TextNow depends heavily on the strength and speed of your internet connection. When connected to a stable WiFi network, most users report relatively good call quality with minimal lag, echo or static. According to reviews on Reddit, “The call quality is very good as long as you have a strong connection” (source). However, the call quality can deteriorate quickly if you are in an area with weak or spotty WiFi.
The app uses VoIP technology to route calls over the internet, so any disruption to your connection will directly impact call quality. When using TextNow over cellular data, users note the call quality is more inconsistent and prone to choppiness or dropped calls, especially in congested areas or with a limited data plan. The general consensus is that TextNow offers reliable call quality when using a stable WiFi network, but quality over cellular data can be hit or miss.
International Calls
TextNow users can make affordable international calls to stay connected with friends and family around the world. According to the TextNow website, international calling rates start at just 1 cent per minute to landlines in some countries.
The exact rate depends on the destination. Calling mobile phones is generally more expensive than calling landlines. For example, calling a mobile number in Mexico costs 5 cents per minute, while calling a landline costs only 2 cents per minute. Users can check TextNow’s page on international calling rates to see the latest pricing for each country.
International calling through TextNow can lead to significant savings compared to traditional long distance plans. It provides an affordable way to stay in touch with loved ones around the world.
Other Features
In addition to unlimited voice calls within the US and Canada, TextNow has several other useful calling features including:
Voicemail – TextNow provides free voicemail so you can receive messages when you miss a call. You can access and manage voicemails directly through the app.
Call Forwarding – You can forward calls from your TextNow number to another number of your choosing. This allows you to receive TextNow calls on a different phone if needed.
Call Waiting – The call waiting feature lets you put one call on hold to answer a second incoming call. You can then switch between the two calls.
According to the TextNow FAQs article on TextNow.com, “You can sign into your account on TextNow.com and see your messages, call history, blocked numbers – everything you can do from the app” (https://www.textnow.com/blog/textnow-faqs-answered). This allows you to manage these features from both the app and the website.
Limitations
TextNow relies on WiFi or mobile data to work, so call quality can suffer if you have a weak connection. According to TextNow’s Help site, accounts may be limited if users exceed the Terms of Use, such as using the service excessively. The free TextNow plan is intended for personal use only.
TextNow’s website states that if users exceed their monthly data limit, speeds may be reduced to 2G: “One limitation which may be placed on a user that has exceeded their monthly data allotment, is that their data speed may be decreased to 2G speed.” This 2G speed restriction can lead to lower call quality.
So while TextNow offers free calling and texting, the quality depends on having a stable WiFi or mobile data connection. Call quality can suffer, especially if on a congested network or if data usage exceeds the monthly limits.
Cost Savings
One of the biggest draws of TextNow is the cost savings compared to traditional wireless plans. The basic TextNow service offers free calling and texting to any number in the US and Canada thanks to its use of WiFi and VoIP technology
According to the TextNow website, their international calling rates are up to 90% lower than traditional carriers Source.
A Reddit user pointed out that for only $5 per year, TextNow allows you to “park” your number so you don’t have to verify it every few weeks Source. This provides substantial cost savings over traditional cell plans.
In summary, TextNow offers excellent cost savings compared to traditional wireless plans through free US/Canada calling, low international rates, and innovative features like number parking.
Availability
TextNow is available as apps for both iOS and Android devices. This makes it very accessible, since most smartphone users have one of these two operating systems. The TextNow app can be downloaded for free from the App Store for iOS devices like iPhones and iPads. For Android, it is available on the Google Play Store for Android phones and tablets.
Since TextNow is an app-based service, it works on both smartphones and tablets. As long as your device is running a fairly modern version of iOS or Android and has data connectivity over WiFi or mobile data, you can install and use the TextNow app to make calls and send texts. The compatibility extends to both phones and tablets running these operating systems 1.
Signing Up
Signing up for TextNow is easy and free. Simply download the TextNow app for either iOS or Android and create an account. You’ll be given the option to get a new free phone number through TextNow or use your existing number if you prefer. The app will walk you through the quick sign up process, which only requires basic information like your name, email, and zip code.
Alternatives
There are a few alternatives to using TextNow for free voice calls.
Some other popular VoIP apps include: Google Voice, TextMe, and 2ndLine. These apps allow you to make voice calls over Wi-Fi similar to TextNow. Google Voice in particular stands out as a top alternative, providing a free phone number and unlimited calling in North America.
You can also consider getting a traditional cell phone plan from major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile or regional carriers. These charge monthly fees but may offer better call quality and coverage than Wi-Fi calling apps. However, they do not offer free calling like TextNow.