Traveling, working remotely, or staying in touch with family abroad shouldn’t be stressful—but sometimes your phone feels useless the moment you step into a new country. Roaming fees, SIM card issues, and app restrictions can make international calling frustrating. That’s where modern international calling apps come in.
These apps let you connect with anyone in the world using Wi-Fi or mobile data, often at little to no cost. But with hundreds of options out there, which ones are truly reliable? In this guide, we’ve tested the top apps for Android and iPhone users in 2026 to help you make clear, affordable calls globally.
Why You Need an International Calling App
Traditional phone plans can be costly abroad. One quick call home can rack up hundreds in roaming charges. Buying local SIMs is inconvenient if you travel across multiple countries.
International calling apps solve these problems by:
- Letting you call friends, family, or colleagues from anywhere.
- Offering free or low-cost calling using Wi-Fi or mobile data.
- Allowing video calls, messaging, and sometimes mobile top-ups—all in one platform.
The trick is finding an app that works worldwide, not just between users of the same service.
1. Slick – A Global Calling Solution
Slick is designed for travelers, remote workers, and anyone who needs a reliable global connection.
Key Features:
- Call any mobile or landline in 200+ countries
- Free app-to-app calls with secure encryption
- Low-cost international plans starting at $2/month
- Global eSIM data options
- Send mobile top-ups instantly
Slick works whether the recipient has the app or not, making it one of the most versatile international calling apps available.
2. WhatsApp
WhatsApp is a household name for messaging and calling.
Strengths:
- Free voice and video calls
- End-to-end encryption
- Works across iPhone and Android
Limitations:
- Only connects with other WhatsApp users
- Cannot call landlines
3. Viber
Viber combines app-to-app calling with paid calls to external numbers.
Strengths:
- High-quality voice calls
- Viber Out lets you call non-users
- Free app-to-app calls
Limitations:
- Paid plans needed for landlines
- International rates vary
4. Google Voice
Google Voice provides a free number for calls, texts, and voicemail.
Strengths:
- Free calls within the US and Canada
- Affordable international rates
- Works on multiple devices
Limitations:
- Mainly US-based
- Less useful for global travel
5. FaceTime
FaceTime is Apple’s built-in app for seamless voice and video calls.
Strengths:
- High-definition audio and video
- Pre-installed on Apple devices
- Easy to use
Limitations:
- Only available on Apple devices
- Cannot call Android or landlines
6. LINE
LINE is popular in Japan and other Asian countries.
Strengths:
- Free calls between LINE users
- Fun features like stickers and games
- LINE Out allows external number calls
Limitations:
- Limited global popularity
- Higher data usage
7. WeChat
WeChat dominates communication in China.
Strengths:
- Free voice and video calls
- Integrated payments and social features
Limitations:
- Mostly functional in China
- Limited usage abroad
8. Telegram
Telegram is valued for speed and security.
Strengths:
- Lightweight and fast
- Encrypted calls
- Works even on weak connections
Limitations:
- App-to-app only
- Cannot call landlines
9. Facebook Messenger
Messenger works across devices with broad user adoption.
Strengths:
- Free calls and video chats
- Works across platforms
- Familiar interface
Limitations:
- Requires strong internet
- Can drain battery
10. Signal
Signal is built for privacy-conscious users.
Strengths:
- End-to-end encryption
- Free app-to-app calls
- Minimal, distraction-free design
Limitations:
- Cannot call external numbers
- Smaller user base than other apps
How to Choose the Right App
When selecting an international calling app, consider:
- Global reach: Can it call landlines and mobiles in multiple countries?
- Cost: Are there free options or affordable subscription plans?
- Call quality: Does it work on slower connections?
- Security: Are your calls encrypted?
- Platform compatibility: Does it support both Android and iPhone?
Why Slick Stands Out in 2026
Slick meets all these criteria and more:
- Call any number worldwide without restrictions
- Affordable monthly plans for international calls
- Clear, secure voice quality
- Integrated mobile top-ups and eSIM data
- Works in 200+ countries for travelers and remote workers
For anyone who wants a single, dependable solution for global communication, Slick is the best choice.
Final Thoughts
Not all calling apps are created equal. Some are perfect for app-to-app chats, but fall short when you need global connectivity. For truly international calling that works anywhere, Slick leads the pack in 2026.
Whether you’re traveling for business, staying in touch with family, or managing clients abroad, an international calling app can make your life simpler and more connected.