Direct link to announcement: https://community.skype.com/t5/Linux/Skype-for-Linux-Alpha-and-calling-on-Chrome-amp-Chromebooks/td-p/4434299
I hope that all the bitterness from people who wouldn't use a proprietary chat program anyway won't make them cancel the development. This is big for people who rely on it for work and can't convince all contacts to move to another platform. Even if there's an ad banner (since it all costs them money), one can easily block it with a hosts file, like on Windows.
As a side note, Viber already works pretty well on Linux too.
if you have the new ipod touch, the ipad, or an iphone, there is an app called Viber, that lets you text message AND use regular style phone calls. As long as wifi or your phone's internet is available, it will work! http://www.viber.com/ I like this app the best because it consolidates both the phone and the texting into one app as opposed to having two separate ones.
aside from that, my SO and I do a lot of skype, because it's nice to see his facial expressions to the stories I tell : ]
Yes it's possible. Check out Viber. Calls are free, texts are coming soon. Meanwhile you can send texts for free via programs like Kik Messenger or PingChat. To make calls and send texts, the receiver has to have those same programs installed.
Since nearly 7 million people use it, it's not really lesser known, but probably not everyone knows about Viber. It syncs with the desktop version, which is available on Windows and Mac, offers features like video chat, works better than Skype, and is free (unless you're a foolish romantic like me and purchase additional stickers). My SO and I always use Viber to communicate over text message or anything else. It's really helped to be able to get messages on my laptop even when I'm away from my phone.
I had to read 4 paragraphs before I knew what Viber actually did. That's pretty terrible.
Here's the description, and how far down I had to read before finding out what this app is all about (emphasis mine):
>Viber is available for Android, iPhone®, BlackBerry® and now for Windows phone®. >We are always introducing new features, platforms and possibilities. >Viber is completely free with no advertising, and we value your privacy: read our policy at http://www.viber.com/privacy > >Get it, you’ll like it. > >WHY VIBER? > >* 100% FREE: Viber and all our features are completely free, with no subscriptions or purchases. Avoid mobile phone “bill shock” - text other users, on any network, as much as you want. All you need is a 3G or Wi-Fi Internet connection, and friends who get Viber too!
I think it looks just ok from their published details. I don't have the app though. Can you look at and verify your own keys and the people you are talking to? If you can, it would be right around FB Messenger secret conversations level. It's not as good as Signal since it's not open source, and Moxie didn't personally implement the protocol so there's fewer to vouch for it.
Viber it is a VOIP service that is awesome if you travel out of the country for any reason. Free online calling and text messaging. As long as the person you are calling has viber installed it works pretty well.
ok, I was misinformed.
They send the data go Google (they use google analytics), but Google promises not to cross-reference IP addresses and device data obtained to determine the user's identity. My description is maybe not the best, you can read the privacy policy here.
Sorry for the misinformation
Provided you have smartphones, there are a number of apps that provide texting type services -- as long as the person gets wifi reception. When my friend was recently vacationing abroad, we used Viber to text each other.
The phone app "Viber" is useful. I have heard some complaints about the quality but it has always worked grand for me.
Was only out on the iphone for a while but it's an android app now too
Also, you could invest in a smartphone and use skype or viber(if u have an iphone) on it if you'd like. Unlimited data plans are around USD$30/month. I would say this is a smart idea since you can also use it as a GPS to get around.
Yes - I think so! The last point on this FAQs - Calling Early State Voters doc states:
>Recommendations for calling from outside the U.S.?
A good method is to use Viber (www.viber.com) + Google Hangouts.
I have a VZ unlimited plan as well. I just turn off the data so I can get calls. Depending on where you go it may or may not work (CDMA vs GSM). I did take several calls before, I never saw the charge on my bill. If you are in a large city or a tourist area there is wifi just about everywhere, try viber which is free and works well. I once bought a long range handheld from amazon when there was no wifi available on a ski trip, worth every penny.
I use Viber and Google Hangouts. What I like about both are the fact that they are available everywhere, desktop, mobile, TV, you fucking name it - and they instantly sync between devices.
I also love Viber over Skype for several reasons. Much better quality (video and audio). Lower data usage. Insanely lightweight compared to Skype and push messaging. Plus a few others.
Two programs that we like to use as part of our project is Todoist and Viber.
Now while there are many scheduling/task organizing/collaborating programs out there, I have really enjoyed the simplicity of Todoist.I can make a personal list of stuff I need to get done, but also start a project for the whole team. With projects you can also assign different task to different members. https://en.todoist.com/
While there are many messaging apps too, I enjoy that I can use Viber both on my phone and on my computer. This provides a seamless transition in conversation and collaboration in between being at the office and on the go. . http://www.viber.com/
Viber FAQ
Can I call people who don't have Viber?
"Yes, if the person you're calling doesn't have Viber, the call will be placed like *regular call, but don't forget to invite your friends to Viber so your next call is free ;).
*Regular calls are calls placed through your cell phone service provider, using your cell phone rate plan."
Not what you asked for, but Viber does not have to be running, you get a push when somone calls, when you unlock it at that time Viber is launched. I'm very impressed with it to be honest.