Fring (or similar) - anyone have hands on experience ?

property.advert

I'm looking at using some form of VoIP from a mobile. I don't know too much and I'm not 100% on the technology. I've looked at the website and I'm not convinced. So, does anyone use this and can you explain it in easy language, going through whe downsides as well as the pluses. Thanks

Grade_A_Reject

property.advert wrote: »

I'm looking at using some form of VoIP from a mobile. I don't know too much and I'm not 100% on the technology. I've looked at the website and I'm not convinced. So, does anyone use this and can you explain it in easy language, going through whe downsides as well as the pluses. Thanks

You haven't specified what handset you're planning to use it on but I've used it on my iPhone with no problems. It uses a standard SIP protocol so should work with most VOIP services. I used it with Sipgate and phoned home for free (all my home phones use VOIP) using the free wi-fi at a pub we frequented in Jersey on holiday thus saving a packet on roaming charges.

It also supports Skype, MSN Google talk and other messaging apps.

As it's completely free I fail to see any downside.

ashnojutsu

Grade_A_Reject wrote: »

As it's completely free I fail to see any downside.

It eats up your data allowance, just like any other internet app. Unless you've got free 'net access via a wi-fi access point, keep a sharp eye on your data usage, or be prepared for a nasty surprise.

fiendishlyclever

I've used it over wifi to make calls from China (using Skype through Fring). Also used it in the UK to Skype when I had wifi but not a mobile signal. Works very well but isn't so good over 3G. I've not used it on 3G long enough to see how much data it uses, but I can recommend it for use over wifi.

Grade_A_Reject

ashnojutsu wrote: »

It eats up your data allowance, just like any other internet app. Unless you've got free 'net access via a wi-fi access point, keep a sharp eye on your data usage, or be prepared for a nasty surprise.

I only use it over wi-fi (free). As far as I know the iPhone doesn't allow VOIP calls over 3G unless you use an unofficial app on a jailbroken phone.

baldelectrician

I use fring.
Have had it off and on for a while now.

You don't need to have skype to do voip calls- all you need is the other person registered on fring.

Can't fault it