AT&T Call International app adds complexity, saves money

Out of the AT&T idea factory comes a new app that allows users to make calls via Voice over IP.  While it doesn’t say so explicitly, Verizon and Sprint users can use this VoIP app to make cheaper(?) calls on their iPhones even though they don’t use AT&T’s wireless service.  Theoretically, International iPhone users could as well.  The app is also available for Android.

The costs are billed directly to a credit card and not necessarily to an AT&T card holder’s account.

Just think of it as a more expensive Skype or (insert your favorite VoIP service here) with more limitations.

Also, while traveling in some countries, AT&T will allow you to use Wifi to make international calls over VoIP.

Here’s a few situations where this makes sense:

1. If you don’t have an AT&T signal but have Wifi – like Midtown Manhatten or the greater San Francisco area for instance.  T-Mobile already does this and it is a great service.  However, T-Mobile lets you recieve calls over Wifi too – which is awesome anywhere (including overseas) where a T-Mobile signal isn’t available.  T-Mobile’s is also integrated into the phone and is free — see where I am going here?  AT&T has a ways to go.

2. If you are travelling internationally and don’t want to get hit with International roaming fees.  Using Wifi saves some money here.

3. If for whatever reason, your Verizon or Sprint long distance calling service is too expensive.

4. International users may be able to get better rates f they can provide AT&T with an acceptable credit card.

Just think, a few years ago VoIP apps were being blocked and now the Telcos are doing it themselves.  Full App info below:

The AT&T Call International™ App allows you to make inexpensive international long distance calls from the U.S. with your iPhone®, using your existing wireless service. There’s no monthly recurring charge, prepaid balance or commitment term required.

AT&T’s Lowest International Calling Rates
•Enjoy our lowest international calling rates to more than 220 countries.¹
•Rates are just 2¢ per minute to Canada and as low as 4¢ per minute to wirelines in countries like China, France, Germany and the U.K.
•See all our great rates at www.callinternational.att.com.

AT&T Call International App Features
•No monthly recurring charges, hidden call fees or packages of minutes to purchase.
•No special codes or PINs needed to place a call. Dial family and friends directly from your iPhone’s contact list.
•Convenient billing directly to your credit card.
•Online account management includes prior statements and near real-time call billing.
•When traveling internationally, calls can be placed over Wi-Fi in select countries.²

Using the AT&T Call International App
•Download the app and follow the simple instructions to set up your AT&T Call International account.
•You’re now ready to start making calls! Simply open the app and dial the international number using the AT&T Call International dial pad. Press “Call”.
•Or, open the app and select “Contacts” to choose a number from your address book.
•The app will route your call over the wireless network to the AT&T Call International gateway, using a routing number that will appear on your screen. The gateway will complete the call to your dialed number.
•International long distance charges will be billed to the credit card associated with your AT&T Call International account.
•For additional information and details, including the AT&T Call International App End User License Agreement, visit www.callinternational.att.com.

Download the AT&T Call International App now and start saving TODAY!

¹Regular airtime rates apply when calling from the U.S., Puerto Rico and U.S.V.I. A small amount of domestic data usage also applies when connecting a call. Calls to wireless numbers and numbers for special services such as Premium Rated Services may cost more than calls to wireline numbers. For a complete list of rates, view the Calling Rate Information under the “My Account” section of the App or visit www.callinternational.att.com.
²If you are placing a call from abroad, you must be connected to a Wi-Fi hotspot in an available country. For a list of available countries, see www.callinternational.att.com.