How to make voice calls from any device

Making and receiving calls remains surprisingly relevant, even in our text-heavy world. Whether you need to contact a business without a text line, prefer human interaction to chatbots, or simply want to hear a loved one's voice, phone calls are still incredibly useful. And with today's technology, you can make calls from a variety of devices, even without holding a phone.

Calling from Your Phone

Your smartphone, beyond its multimedia capabilities, is a fully functional phone! Both Android and iOS devices feature a built-in "Phone" app. Both operating systems offer a "Favorites" section for quick access to frequently contacted individuals. Add contacts by tapping "Add" (Android) or the " " icon (iOS). Android users can also create home screen shortcuts for direct dialing.

Voice commands are another convenient option. Say "Hey Google, call..." or "Hey Siri, call..." followed by the contact's name. Remember to enable voice command listening in your device's settings (Android: Apps > Assistant > Say "Hey Google"; iOS: Siri & Search > Listen for "Hey Siri"). Alternatively, activate the assistant via a long press of the side button (iOS) or a swipe up from the bottom of the screen (Android).

Numerous apps also support audio calls, including Skype, Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Snapchat, Instagram, FaceTime (iOS only), and Google Duo. Explore your favorite social media apps—they may offer hidden calling features.

Calling from Your Computer

Apple users benefit from seamless integration between Macs and iPhones. Using the macOS FaceTime app (with the same Apple ID), calls can ring simultaneously on both devices. Configure this in FaceTime Preferences.

Android and Windows users can leverage the "Your Phone" app on Windows to make and receive calls directly from their computer.

For cross-platform compatibility (Android/macOS or iPhone/Windows), apps like Skype provide a solution. Skype offers free calls to other Skype users and affordable calls to landlines and mobiles.

Facebook Messenger's web interface allows audio and video calls to other Messenger users. Locate the contact, then click the phone or video camera icon. Note: This connects to the Messenger app, not the recipient's phone number directly.

Google Duo, also accessible via web browser, offers free calls to other Duo users.

KeKu, a Skype alternative, provides a subscription service ($10/month) for unlimited US landline and mobile calls, with international calls available for an extra fee.

Calling from Your Smart Speaker

Smart speakers offer unparalleled convenience. For Amazon Echo, use the Alexa app to set up calling. Verify your number, sync contacts, and confirm your display name. Then, simply say "Alexa, call..." followed by the contact's name or number. US landline and mobile calls are free.

For Google Nest, use the Google Home app to sync contacts, enable mobile calling in settings, and choose your number visibility. Say "Hey Google, call..." followed by the contact's name (and optionally "mobile" or "home"). US landline and mobile calls are free.

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