After a beta test in Canada, Facebook has launched a new feature in the US that enables free voice calls for iPhone customers using its Messenger app. Similar to services already available through Skype and Google Voice, Facebook VoIP calls are made though a user’s WiFi signal or data connection and allow phone conversations with allow phone conversations without the use of any plan “minutes.” Unlike Skype and other competitor apps, Messenger allows users to call others in the United States from their Facebook friends list without using any phone numbers.

To make a call using the Messenger VoPI service, Facebook users simply tap the “i” in the top right corner of the app and press “Free Call.”

The social network has long been rumored to be developing its own smartphone, but the new feature indicates it may instead plan on replacing traditional mobile phone plans with its own features. Perhaps Facebook is positioning itself to become the default calling app on future smartphones. It’s certainly moved leaps and bounds beyond the Newsfeed and Timeline with the new VoIP, its voice messaging service, new Poke app and recently-announced Graph Search feature. It even allows non-Facebook members to use the Messenger app. Would you ever replace your voice and texting service plans with Facebook?

[Image via Facebook Messenger]

Samantha Lile

Samantha Lile is a 2002 Missouri State University graduate of journalism and mass media. She has served as a reporter and editor for various newspapers throughout her journalism career. She made the leap into writing full-time after working for a major financial institution since 2000.

Because of her banking background, Samantha is knowledgeable in finance reporting, but is also strong in commentaries, personal profiles, youth studies, horticulture, history and entertainment-related works.

Samantha lives in Ozark, Mo. with her husband of nine years, four dogs and two cats.

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