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Key Takeaways
- Android tablets can make voice calls over the internet using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) apps or cellular data if they have a SIM card slot
- Popular VoIP apps like Google Voice, Skype, and Facebook Messenger allow free voice calls between app users or low-cost calls to regular phone numbers
- Tablets with cellular capabilities and an active SIM card can make regular voice calls just like a smartphone
Making voice calls from your Android tablet is a convenient way to stay connected without having to rely solely on your smartphone. While not all tablets are designed for voice calling out of the box, there are several methods you can use to enable this functionality. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different options available for making voice calls from your Android tablet device.
Using VoIP Apps for Voice Calls
One of the most popular and cost-effective ways to make voice calls from your Android tablet is by using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) apps. These apps allow you to make voice calls over the internet, either for free between app users or at a low cost to regular phone numbers. Here are some of the best VoIP apps for Android tablets:
Google Voice
Google Voice is a free VoIP service that provides you with a dedicated phone number for making calls and sending text messages. With the Google Voice app installed on your tablet, you can make voice calls to other Google Voice users for free or place calls to regular phone numbers at competitive rates.
Pros:
- Free calls to other Google Voice users
- Low-cost calls to regular phone numbers
- Voicemail transcription and spam filtering
- Syncs across all your devices
Cons:
- Only available in select countries
- Requires a Google account
Skype
Skype is a widely popular VoIP app that allows you to make voice and video calls, send messages, and share files. While Skype-to-Skype calls are free, you’ll need to purchase Skype Credit or a subscription to call regular phone numbers.
Pros:
- Free voice and video calls between Skype users
- Cross-platform compatibility (desktop, mobile, web)
- Screen sharing and file transfer capabilities
Cons:
- Calls to regular phone numbers require Skype Credit or a subscription
- Some features may require a paid subscription
Facebook Messenger
Although primarily known as a messaging app, Facebook Messenger also supports voice and video calling. You can make free voice calls to other Facebook Messenger users or use the app’s low-cost calling feature to call regular phone numbers.
Pros:
- Free voice calls between Facebook Messenger users
- Low-cost calls to regular phone numbers
- Integrated with the popular Facebook platform
Cons:
- Requires a Facebook account
- Call quality may vary depending on your internet connection
Making Calls Using Cellular Data
If your Android tablet has a SIM card slot and cellular capabilities, you can make regular voice calls just like you would on a smartphone. This method requires an active SIM card from a cellular service provider and a data plan.
Steps to make calls using cellular data:
- Insert a SIM card: Locate the SIM card slot on your tablet (usually on the side or back) and insert an active SIM card from your cellular service provider.
- Enable cellular data: Go to your tablet’s Settings app, then navigate to the “Network & Internet” or “Wireless & Networks” section. Enable the “Cellular Data” or “Mobile Data” option.
- Make a call: Once cellular data is enabled, you can use your tablet’s default Phone app (if available) or download a third-party dialer app to make voice calls using your cellular service provider’s network.
Pros:
- Make regular voice calls like a smartphone
- No need for additional apps or services
- Consistent call quality (depending on cellular coverage)
Cons:
- Requires an active SIM card and cellular data plan (additional cost)
- Not all tablets have cellular capabilities or a SIM card slot
- Potential battery drain from cellular data usage
Using Bluetooth Headsets or Speakerphone
Regardless of whether you’re using a VoIP app or cellular data for voice calls, you’ll likely want to use a Bluetooth headset or your tablet’s built-in speakerphone for a more comfortable hands-free experience.
Using a Bluetooth Headset:
- Pair your Bluetooth headset: Go to your tablet’s Settings app, then navigate to the “Bluetooth” section. Turn on Bluetooth and select your headset from the list of available devices.
- Connect your headset: Follow the prompts to pair and connect your Bluetooth headset to your tablet.
- Make a call: Once connected, you can use your Bluetooth headset for voice calls, whether you’re using a VoIP app or your tablet’s cellular capabilities.
Using the Speakerphone:
Most Android tablets have a built-in speakerphone that you can use for hands-free voice calls. During an active call, simply tap the “Speaker” icon to enable or disable the speakerphone.
Pros:
- Hands-free convenience
- Improved audio quality (compared to holding the tablet to your ear)
Cons:
- Potential audio quality issues in noisy environments (for speakerphone)
- Battery drain from Bluetooth usage (for Bluetooth headsets)
By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can easily make voice calls from your Android tablet device, whether you’re using VoIP apps, cellular data, or a combination of both. Enjoy the convenience of staying connected without being tethered to your smartphone.