How to: iCall - Finally, Free VOIP Calls - Instructions & Minireview

Here's the situation: you have a laptop, an internet connection, a microphone, and now you're thinking I want to use the convenience and portabilty of my laptop to make VOIP calls. Well hey, let's do just that, but let's make the deal even sweeter by making those calls FREE. Not a 1 minute trial, or give us your credit card number trial, no, free.

iCall will connect you via internet to landline phone. All you have to do is listen to a 10 second ad, and then they connect your call. Not only can you make calls but you can also recieve calls from a landline to your internet connected device. Now I say device because iCall will work with the iPhone and iPod Touch as well. Are you ready to make the jump? Here goes...

Instructions to make calls:
1. Download their software and install: http://www.icall.com/desktop/
2. Sign up for a free New Account
3. Log into your account using their software
4. Type in the number you wish to call
5. That's all there is to it, a 10 second ad will play, and right after, your call will connect

Instructions to receive calls:
1. Each user is given a unique identifier number. You will see this number after you've signed in under their software menu bar.
2. Basically, your family or friends will call a local number provided by iCall. Then they will punch in your ID number to connect to your computer or device.
3. Local access numbers for each state are given here http://www.icall.com/desktop/access-numbers/

Conclusion:
The installation and setup was a definite positive. They've streamlined the process so that calls are made easily and without complication. The call quality was decent, as the recepient recieving my call reported hearing echo and some voice cutoff. For reference, the connection I was at had a 1.5Mbps down and 384Kbps upload. I will be looking forward to long term usage in hopes that they will improve their services like Skype or Vonage.

Overall, considering that the service is free, iCall is a clear choice for those looking for free VOIP service. Enjoy the free calls.

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