At the beginning of 2013, Facebook began testing the ability to make calls over WiFi and data networks to see the quality, the availability and the functionality of allowing users to make calls using the social network. Now, if you are using an iPhone in the United States, you can make free calls through the Facebook Messenger app with no update to any of your friends. This will come in handy if you find yourself stranded without a cell signal but still have access to a WiFi network or a data network in the area.
How to make calls from your iPhone through the Facebook Messenger app
You will have to update your iPhone Facebook Messenger app to start making calls to version 2.1 through the iTunes Store. Once updated, you can begin making calls to those who have also updated to the latest version. If they do not have the latest version, you cannot call them until they upgrade.
Simply head to a friend you want to call on the app, click the “i” in the right-hand corner of the screen and you will begin calling them.
The person on the other end of the call will receive a push notification that says you are calling, and they can answer the call to begin the conversation. It really is that simple.
By offering free calling through the Facebook Messenger app, this paves the way for Facebook to develop their own version of Skype, Vonage and more.
Why would Facebook offer iPhone users free calling?
While Facebook has a relationship with Skype for its use within the social network’s website, there is no telling when an Android Facebook Messenger version may be released. Facebook has kept their lips sealed on the issue. While Android users were excited by the update yesterday to the Facebook Messenger app, free calling has not been enabled on it just yet.
Download Facebook Messenger for iPhone.
