So you’ve got an iPhone and you’re ready to make international calls, but you’re not quite sure how to go about it. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps on how to call international on iPhone. Whether you’re trying to catch up with a friend in another country or make business calls abroad, we’ll show you the easy way to connect with people around the world using your iPhone. Let’s get started!
Setting up Your iPhone for International Calls
Check for Carrier Coverage
Before making international calls on your iPhone, it is important to check if your carrier provides coverage in the country you plan to call. Not all carriers have international coverage, so it is crucial to confirm this beforehand. You can usually find this information on your carrier’s website or by contacting their customer support.
Enable International Roaming
To make international calls on your iPhone, you need to enable international roaming. Go to the “Settings” app on your iPhone, then tap on “Cellular” or “Mobile Data” option. Look for the “Data Roaming” toggle switch and make sure it is turned on. This enables your iPhone to connect to international networks and use their services.
Purchase an International Calling Plan
To minimize costs and avoid unexpected charges, it is recommended to purchase an international calling plan from your carrier. These plans often provide discounted rates for international calls and may include certain minutes or data allowances. Contact your carrier to inquire about the available international calling plans and choose one that suits your needs.
Regular International Calling
Dialing an International Number
To make regular international calls on your iPhone, you need to enter the appropriate international number format. The format typically consists of the country code, followed by the area code (if applicable), and the phone number. However, there are a few different methods for dialing international numbers on an iPhone.
Adding the Country Code
The country code is a numerical code that represents a specific country. When dialing an international number from your iPhone, you need to add the country code before the actual phone number. For example, if you are calling a number in the United Kingdom, you would need to enter “+44” before the phone number.
Dialing the Phone Number
Once you have entered the country code, you can proceed to dial the actual phone number. Remember to include any area codes or additional digits required for the specific number you are calling. Check with your recipient or consult an international calling directory to ensure accuracy.
Using the + Symbol
A convenient way to enter the country code when making international calls on an iPhone is by using the “+” symbol. Simply press and hold the “0” key on your iPhone’s dial pad, and the “+” symbol will appear. You can then enter the country code and continue dialing the phone number.
Using the Phone’s Dial Pad
Alternatively, you can manually enter the country code and phone number using your iPhone’s dial pad. Open the “Phone” app on your iPhone and switch to the dial pad view. Enter the country code and phone number using the on-screen keypad and tap the call button to initiate the international call.
Using FaceTime for International Calls
FaceTime Audio for International Calls
If you prefer to make international calls using a data connection, FaceTime Audio is a great option. FaceTime Audio allows you to make voice calls over Wi-Fi or cellular data rather than using traditional voice calls. To use FaceTime Audio for international calls, both you and the recipient need to have FaceTime enabled on your respective devices. Simply open the “FaceTime” app on your iPhone, select the contact you want to call, and choose the “Audio” option.
FaceTime Video for International Calls
FaceTime also offers the option to make international video calls. This allows you to have a face-to-face conversation with your contacts abroad. To make a FaceTime Video call, follow the same steps as for FaceTime Audio, but choose the “Video” option instead. Keep in mind that FaceTime Video calls require a stable internet connection and may consume a considerable amount of data.
Using Wi-Fi Calling for International Calls
Enabling Wi-Fi Calling
Wi-Fi Calling is a feature available on many iOS devices, including iPhones, that allows you to make and receive calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of using cellular networks. To enable Wi-Fi Calling on your iPhone, go to the “Settings” app, tap on “Phone” or “Cellular,” and look for the “Wi-Fi Calling” option. Turn it on and follow any additional prompts or instructions provided by your carrier.
Making International Calls with Wi-Fi Calling
Once Wi-Fi Calling is enabled on your iPhone, making international calls is as simple as dialing the desired phone number using the regular dial pad. The call will be routed through the Wi-Fi network instead of the cellular network, resulting in potential cost savings, especially when making calls to countries with high international calling rates.
Using Third-Party Apps for International Calls
Downloading and Installing an App
There are various third-party apps available that allow you to make international calls on your iPhone. These apps utilize internet connections, such as Wi-Fi or cellular data, to connect your calls. To use these apps, you first need to download and install them from the App Store. Some popular examples include Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, and Google Hangouts.
Creating an Account
After installing a third-party calling app, you usually need to create an account with the app provider. This generally involves entering your personal information and creating a username and password. Follow the prompts within the app to complete the account creation process.
Adding Credit or Balance
To make international calls using third-party apps, you may need to add credit or balance to your account. This is often done through in-app purchases, where you can buy prepaid minutes or credit packages. The cost of these purchases varies depending on the app and the country you are calling. Check the app’s settings or pricing information to understand the costs involved.
Making International Calls within the App
Once you have set up your account and added credit, you can start making international calls within the third-party app. Open the app on your iPhone and navigate to the call or dial pad feature. Enter the international number you wish to call, including the country code and any additional digits, and initiate the call. The call will be connected using the app’s internet-based calling technology.
Using Calling Cards for International Calls
Purchasing a Calling Card
Calling cards are another option for making international calls on your iPhone. These prepaid cards typically come with a specific amount of minutes that can be used for international calls. You can purchase calling cards online or at select retail stores. Look for a calling card that offers competitive rates for the countries you plan to call.
Dialing the Access Number
To use a calling card, you need to dial an access number provided by the calling card service. This access number is different from the international phone number you wish to call. Consult the calling card instructions or website for the specific access number you need to dial.
Entering the Pin Code
After dialing the access number, you will be prompted to enter a PIN code associated with your calling card. This PIN code is usually provided on the calling card itself or via email when you purchase the card. Enter the PIN code using your iPhone’s dial pad and follow the voice prompts or instructions provided by the calling card service.
Dialing the International Number
Once you have entered the access number and PIN code, you can proceed to dial the international number you wish to call. Enter the country code, followed by the phone number, and initiate the call. The call will be connected using the minutes available on your calling card.
Considering Cost and Alternatives
International Calling Rates
When making international calls on your iPhone, it is important to consider the associated costs. International calling rates can vary significantly depending on the country you are calling and your carrier’s pricing structure. Research the rates offered by your carrier, as well as any available international calling plans, to ensure you select the most cost-effective option for your needs.
Prepaid SIM Cards
If you frequently travel internationally and make a lot of calls, using a prepaid SIM card can be a viable alternative. Prepaid SIM cards are available for purchase in many countries and allow you to have a local phone number while abroad. This can result in significantly lower calling rates compared to using your home carrier’s international services.
Local SIM Cards
Another alternative for making international calls is to use a local SIM card in the country you are visiting. By purchasing a local SIM card, you can take advantage of local calling rates and avoid expensive international call charges. However, keep in mind that using a local SIM card will require your iPhone to be unlocked, and you will have a different phone number while abroad.
Troubleshooting International Calling on iPhone
Checking Airplane Mode
If you are experiencing issues with international calling on your iPhone, one troubleshooting step is to check if Airplane Mode is enabled. When Airplane Mode is turned on, all wireless connections, including cellular networks, are disabled. Ensure that Airplane Mode is turned off in the “Settings” app before attempting to make international calls.
Updating Carrier Settings
Outdated carrier settings on your iPhone can sometimes cause problems with international calling. To ensure your iPhone is using the latest carrier settings, go to the “Settings” app, tap on “General,” and select “About.” If an update is available, you will be prompted to install it. Updating your carrier settings can potentially resolve any compatibility issues.
Restarting Your iPhone
When troubleshooting international calling issues, restarting your iPhone can help refresh the device’s settings and connections. Press and hold the power button until the “Slide to Power Off” prompt appears. Slide the button to power off your iPhone, then wait a few seconds before pressing the power button again to turn it back on. Once your iPhone has rebooted, try making the international call again.
Contacting Your Carrier
If you have followed the troubleshooting steps above and are still experiencing problems with international calling on your iPhone, it is recommended to contact your carrier’s customer support. They can provide specific guidance based on your carrier’s network and services. Be prepared to provide details about the issue you are facing, such as error messages, call quality problems, or connection errors.
Potential Issues and Solutions
Call Quality and Connection Problems
Sometimes, international calls can suffer from poor call quality or experience frequent disconnections. This can be due to various factors, including network congestion, low signal strength, or issues with the recipient’s network. If you encounter call quality or connection problems, try moving to an area with better signal reception or switch to a different method of making international calls, such as Wi-Fi calling or using a third-party app.
Network Connectivity Issues
While traveling internationally, network connectivity can be a concern, especially if you are in remote areas or countries with limited infrastructure. In such cases, it may be helpful to rely on Wi-Fi networks for making international calls. Additionally, using third-party apps that offer voice calls over Wi-Fi or data connections can provide a more reliable calling experience in areas with poor cellular network coverage.
Non-Compatible Carrier or Plan
In some cases, your current carrier or plan may not be compatible with international calling. Certain carriers have restrictions on using their services for international calls, or their plans may not include international calling features. If your carrier or plan does not support international calling, you may need to switch to a different carrier or upgrade to a plan that offers international calling capabilities.
Best Practices for International Calling
Checking Wireless Network Availability
Before making international calls on your iPhone, it is advisable to check the availability and quality of wireless networks in the area. While Wi-Fi networks are generally more reliable for international calls, they may not be available everywhere. If you are relying on cellular networks, ensure you have a good signal strength to avoid call drops or reduced call quality.
Researching Calling Rates
To avoid unexpected charges, it is crucial to research and compare calling rates for the countries you plan to call. Different carriers and calling methods can have varying rates, so take the time to understand the costs involved. Consider purchasing an international calling plan from your carrier or exploring alternative options like prepaid SIM cards or third-party calling apps to ensure you get the best value for your money.
Using Data Apps or VoIP Services
In addition to traditional voice calls, consider using data apps or VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services for international calling. Apps like Skype, WhatsApp, or Viber allow you to make voice and video calls using internet connections, potentially reducing costs compared to traditional calling methods. However, remember to monitor your data usage to avoid exceeding any mobile data limits or incurring additional charges.
By following these guidelines and exploring the various options available, you can set up your iPhone for international calls and stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues around the world. Enjoy the convenience of making international calls with ease, and remember to consider cost-effective alternatives to ensure you’re getting the most value from your communication efforts.
