Viber is a popular messaging and voice-over-internet protocol (VoIP) app that allows users to make voice and video calls, send messages, and share media files with individuals or groups. With over a billion registered users worldwide, Viber has become a go-to communication platform for many people. However, one question that often arises is: do Viber calls cost money? In this article, we will delve into the costs and benefits of using Viber, helping you understand how the app works and what expenses you can expect.
How Viber Works
Before we dive into the costs, it’s essential to understand how Viber works. Viber uses the internet to connect calls, rather than traditional cellular networks. This means that as long as you have a stable internet connection, you can make voice and video calls to anyone, anywhere in the world, using Viber.
Viber offers several features, including:
- Voice and video calls
- Messaging (text, images, videos, and files)
- Group chats
- File sharing
- Screen sharing
- End-to-end encryption for secure communication
Viber’s Business Model
Viber generates revenue through various channels, including:
- In-app purchases: Viber offers in-app purchases for stickers, emojis, and other virtual goods.
- Advertising: Viber displays ads in the app, which generate revenue for the company.
- Viber Out: Viber Out is a feature that allows users to make calls to non-Viber numbers, including landlines and mobile phones. This feature is not free and requires users to purchase credits.
Do Viber Calls Cost Money?
Now, let’s address the main question: do Viber calls cost money? The answer is a bit complex.
- Viber-to-Viber calls are free: If you’re calling another Viber user, the call is free, as long as you have a stable internet connection. This applies to both voice and video calls.
- Viber Out calls are not free: If you want to call a non-Viber number, including landlines and mobile phones, you’ll need to use Viber Out. This feature requires you to purchase credits, which can be bought through the app.
Viber Out Rates
Viber Out rates vary depending on the country you’re calling and the type of number you’re calling (landline or mobile). Here are some approximate rates for Viber Out calls:
| Country | Landline Rate (per minute) | Mobile Rate (per minute) |
| — | — | — |
| United States | $0.012 | $0.022 |
| United Kingdom | $0.015 | $0.025 |
| Australia | $0.018 | $0.028 |
| India | $0.008 | $0.015 |
Please note that these rates are subject to change and may vary depending on the country you’re calling.
Benefits of Using Viber
While Viber calls may not always be free, the app offers several benefits that make it a popular choice for many users. Here are some of the advantages of using Viber:
- Low-cost international calls: Viber Out rates are often lower than traditional international calling rates.
- High-quality voice and video calls: Viber uses advanced technology to ensure high-quality voice and video calls.
- End-to-end encryption: Viber offers end-to-end encryption, which ensures that your conversations are secure and private.
- Cross-platform compatibility: Viber is available on multiple platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS.
- Group chats and file sharing: Viber allows you to create group chats and share files with up to 250 people.
Alternatives to Viber
If you’re looking for alternative messaging and VoIP apps, here are some options:
- Skype
- Facebook Messenger
- Google Duo
- Signal
Each of these apps has its own features and pricing models, so it’s essential to research and compare them before making a decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Viber calls can cost money, but only if you’re using the Viber Out feature to call non-Viber numbers. Viber-to-Viber calls are free, as long as you have a stable internet connection. While Viber may not always be the cheapest option, it offers several benefits, including low-cost international calls, high-quality voice and video calls, and end-to-end encryption. By understanding how Viber works and what expenses you can expect, you can make informed decisions about your communication needs.
Final Thoughts
Viber is a popular messaging and VoIP app that offers a range of features and benefits. While it may not be perfect, Viber is a reliable and secure communication platform that can help you stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues around the world. By using Viber wisely and taking advantage of its free features, you can save money on your communication expenses and enjoy high-quality voice and video calls.
Do Viber calls cost money?
Viber calls do not cost money if you are calling another Viber user and both parties have a stable internet connection. Viber uses Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, which allows users to make voice and video calls using their internet connection instead of traditional phone lines. This means that as long as you have a reliable internet connection, you can make free calls to other Viber users, regardless of their location.
However, if you are calling a non-Viber user or a landline number, you will need to use Viber Out, a paid service that allows you to make calls to any phone number in the world. Viber Out rates vary depending on the country you are calling, but they are generally competitive with other VoIP services. You can check the Viber Out rates on the Viber website or within the app.
What are the benefits of using Viber for calls?
One of the main benefits of using Viber for calls is that it is free to call other Viber users, as long as you have a stable internet connection. This can be especially useful for people who have friends or family living abroad, as it allows them to stay in touch without incurring high international calling rates. Additionally, Viber calls are generally of high quality, with clear audio and minimal lag or dropped calls.
Another benefit of using Viber is that it offers a range of features that can enhance your calling experience. For example, you can make video calls, send messages and files, and even make group calls with up to 20 people. Viber also offers end-to-end encryption, which means that your calls and messages are secure and private.
How does Viber make money if calls are free?
Viber makes money through a variety of channels, despite offering free calls to other Viber users. One way the company generates revenue is through Viber Out, its paid service that allows users to make calls to non-Viber users and landline numbers. Viber Out rates vary depending on the country you are calling, but they are generally competitive with other VoIP services.
Viber also generates revenue through advertising and sponsored content. The app displays ads in the form of banners, videos, and sponsored messages, which can be targeted to specific users based on their interests and demographics. Additionally, Viber offers a range of premium features and services, such as Viber Games and Viber Stickers, which can be purchased through the app.
Is Viber safe and secure?
Viber takes the safety and security of its users very seriously. The app offers end-to-end encryption, which means that all calls and messages are encrypted and can only be accessed by the sender and the recipient. This ensures that your communications are private and secure, and cannot be intercepted or accessed by third parties.
In addition to end-to-end encryption, Viber also offers a range of other security features, such as two-factor authentication and password protection. The app also has a strict policy of not collecting or storing user data, which means that your personal information is protected and secure. Viber is also compliant with a range of international security standards, including GDPR and HIPAA.
Can I use Viber for business purposes?
Viber can be a useful tool for business purposes, especially for small businesses or entrepreneurs who need to stay in touch with clients or colleagues remotely. The app offers a range of features that can be useful for business, such as group calls, file sharing, and messaging. Additionally, Viber’s end-to-end encryption ensures that your business communications are secure and private.
Viber also offers a range of premium features and services that can be useful for businesses, such as Viber for Business, which allows companies to create their own branded stickers and bots. The app also offers a range of integrations with other business tools and services, such as CRM systems and marketing automation platforms.
How does Viber compare to other VoIP services?
Viber is one of many VoIP services available, but it has a number of features that set it apart from the competition. One of the main advantages of Viber is its ease of use and simplicity, which makes it accessible to users who may not be tech-savvy. The app also offers a range of features that are not available on other VoIP services, such as end-to-end encryption and group calls.
In terms of pricing, Viber is generally competitive with other VoIP services, especially for international calls. However, the app’s rates can vary depending on the country you are calling, so it’s worth checking the Viber website or app for the most up-to-date pricing information. Overall, Viber is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich VoIP service.
Can I use Viber on multiple devices?
Yes, you can use Viber on multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers. The app offers a range of syncing features that allow you to access your Viber account and messages across multiple devices. This means that you can start a conversation on one device and pick it up on another, without missing a beat.
To use Viber on multiple devices, you simply need to download the app on each device and log in with your Viber account credentials. The app will then sync your messages and contacts across all of your devices, allowing you to access them from anywhere. Viber also offers a range of desktop apps for Windows and Mac, which can be downloaded from the Viber website.