Is it possible to set the call function on the tablet. How to call from a tablet and is it possible at all? The best apps for talking over the Internet

Initially, the tablet was intended for nothing more than surfing the web, listening to music, watching movies and reading books. Although the first devices had a small number of built-in applications, the era of shops came much later. However, today there is a more pressing question - is it possible to call from a tablet?

Undoubtedly yes! At the same time, it does not matter what kind of device you have and whether there is a slot for a SIM card. You can easily make calls to your friends' mobile phones.

Below we will consider all the ways to call from a tablet. First you need to figure out what technologies allow you to do this:

  1. 3G (4G-LTE).
  2. WiFi.

GSM

This is the same module that is in the most common mobile phones. That is, you can use any SIM card of a familiar operator. To do this, the tablet has a SIM card slot. The very appearance of this kind of tablets caused a smirk on the faces of both giant manufacturers and users. Mainly due to the fact that these devices were produced by Chinese companies at low prices and the segment of this market did not seem promising. The fact that the tablet can be used as a phone came to the masses much later. This was facilitated by the fall in the cost of the Internet. It became possible to make video calls and hold conferences very cheaply. Thus, even the giants Apple and Samsung have started to enter the market with GSM and 3-4G solutions.

To make calls, the tablet has a standard application with a dialer, address book and other functions, like a regular phone. The application itself can be replaced with a better one with more options.

3G (4G-LTE) and Wi-Fi technologies

The essence of these modules is that they provide access to the Internet. With the help of the latter and certain programs, you can make calls both between users and to regular landline and mobile numbers. The difference lies in convenience, connection speed and cost. The disadvantage of Wi-Fi is that it is stationary, but at the same time, many portable routers are sold that convert 3G into a radio signal. It follows from this that if the tablet has a slot for a 3G card, then it makes sense to use Wi-Fi only at home, if you have high-speed home Internet.

How to make a call from a tablet: Video

Programs for making calls

There are a lot of programs for making calls. In addition, such functions have been provided by social networks, services and even messengers for a long time. You can make calls between users of a certain program or service from a tablet absolutely free of charge (including video calls), but to make calls to mobile or landline phones, you must first top up your account. This can be done in self-service terminals or through electronic payments (Web-Money, Liq Pay, etc.).

The cost of calls in this way is often more profitable than the cost of calls from mobile operators, especially when it comes to roaming or calls abroad. on the website of a particular program.

What tablet can make calls?

The most popular program for Internet telephony is Skype. It works on absolutely all tablets. In the program, after downloading, you need to create your account. This does not apply to Windows 8 tablet users, where the Skype account is Account Microsoft. The application itself does not require an initial payment of money, you can communicate between users of the system for free (no monthly fee, minimum monthly amount, etc.).

The iOS system has its own programs that work only on this platform - Line2 or Fring. True, to use the first program, you need to configure the device a little, and the program itself is not as popular and widespread as compared to Skype.

Among other programs, Viber and ooVoo can be distinguished, satisfying the request, how to call from a tablet. The programs are also multifunctional, while many options are free.

Other telephony

Can I make a call from a tablet without using programs? Yes! Today any social network, self-respecting, provides users with the opportunity to communicate with each other not only through messages, but also through audio-video communications. This is VKontakte, and Facebook, and all the rest. Even messengers have the ability to make calls - ICQ, Qip, MAIL.RU-agent and so on.

As you can see, making calls from a tablet is very simple and convenient. To this, we can add that the time is coming when people will communicate on the streets via video communication for free. And this time is not far off, because it has already come. There are devices and technologies available. It remains only to start using it.

Publication date: 01.10.13

Almost all tablet owners sooner or later ask themselves the question “is it possible to make calls from a tablet?” or “how to call from a tablet?”. This is especially true for 3G versions of tablet models. “They also have a slot for a SIM card, which means you can call from them in any way!” the majority thinks. In this article, we will deal with everything with you.

Why is it not possible to call from every tablet?

Understand the most important thing - if the tablet has a place to insert a SIM card, this does not mean that it can call by default. The fact is that in addition to the SIM slot, you also need a cellular module that provides voice calls and SMS. Your favorite 3G version has a 3G module that provides you with the Internet, and it's not a fact that it also has a cellular module. In fact, everything is a little more complicated, I simply told it so that it would be clear to everyone.

Do you understand what I mean? If you want to make calls and all that through the tablet, then this moment had to be thought out in advance, and take a tablet with such an opportunity right away, since there is plenty to choose from.

Here is a link to Yandex.Market especially for you, where you can see a catalog of tablets from which you can make calls via cellular networks. You can find out if you can call from your device on the same site. Write its model in the search above and in the characteristics look for the line "work in cell phone mode." If it is, then it is possible; if not, then it is not.

Programs for calling from a tablet

In all tablets, where the ability to make calls is provided, the application for making calls should already be preinstalled (see screenshots). If you can't find it, try updating the firmware, the manufacturer must have added a dialer to the latest firmware version. You can search the app store for some "dialer" by entering the query "dialer" in the search. For example ExDialer .

There are also alternative dialers that work on the Internet:

one. . Throw money into the account and call any number in any country via the Internet. By the way, the tariffs there are not biting, for example, 60 minutes of calls per month for calls within Russia (home or cell numbers) will cost $ 2.79 *. It is not necessary to take a subscription, you can pay only for the calls made. Tariffs for Skype communication services can be viewed on the official Skype website.

2.Fring. An analogue of Skype, only less popular. Decent program to use. There are video calls.

At the time of buying new technology, in particular a tablet, many are interested in the question of how to call from a tablet and whether it can be done at all. In fact, the answer to these questions is very simple - yes, you can, but only if it has a GSM module. It does not depend on what brand of tablet - Samsung, Apple or any other, what memory or on any other characteristics, only the presence of a GSM module plays a role.

It is worth paying attention to the fact that the presence of a 3G module does not make it possible to talk on the tablet like on a phone. Also, you cannot send SMS from a tablet with a 3G module, except with the help of special programs such as Skype, Viber and other instant messengers. Actually, in the same way, you can use a computer as a phone. But this does not make it a full-fledged analog of the phone.

Thus, when buying, you need to immediately clarify whether there is a GSM module in the tablet. Depending on this, the ways that make it possible to contact and talk to other users will differ. It is worth saying that in both cases you will need to buy and insert a SIM card into the tablet. But, again, this does not mean that a device without a GSM module can be a phone.

If the tablet has a GSM module

In this case, the tablet can be used as a full-fledged phone. It will have its own standard program for making calls. With it, you can dial a number and talk on the tablet like on a phone. The user will also be able to send SMS. Actually, the situation is exactly the same as with any modern smartphone.

All smartphones have a GSM module and any smartphone allows you to dial a phone number and talk to another person. That is, a tablet with a GSM module is the same smartphone, only more.

There is exactly the same Android or another operating system with its standard programs, including a dialer. Thus, there are no questions about how to talk on such a tablet - just go to the "Phone" or another standard program for making calls, dial a number and talk.

Most Samsung tablets have such a GSM module. But, as mentioned above, this point must be clarified when buying. You can also talk on the iPad, but not on all its models - this point needs to be clarified.

If the tablet does not have a GSM module

But if there is no GSM module on the tablet, the tablet can still be used as a phone, but only if one of the messengers is installed. Consider the most popular such programs and how to talk on a tablet with their help with ordinary subscribers with ordinary phone numbers. This means that if you have a messenger installed, it is not necessary that the interlocutor also has it installed, he may have a regular Nokia 3310, but you can still chat with him. After that, everyone will be able to understand which program suits him best.

Skype

Undoubtedly, this is the most popular messenger today, which is available on all operating systems for all users. Skype allows you to call on an iPad or tablet of any brand. Of course, we all know how to make a call to another Skype subscriber. But few people know that this program allows you to call a regular phone. The version of Skype for tablets is almost the same as on computers, so calls to regular phones are made the same there. To use Skype as a phone, you need to do the following:

  • go to the "Calls" menu on the top panel of the program window;
  • click on the item "Calls to the phone";
  • enter the phone number in the appropriate field and press the dial button (located nearby).

If the Internet does not get to the tablet via 3G or mobile Internet, but via WiFi, then calls via instant messengers can be made without a SIM card. This applies to absolutely all messengers. In Skype, you will have to pay for calls to regular phones. But the rates here are very "human".

ICQ

This messenger, it would seem, died, but recently he experienced a real reincarnation and rose like a Phoenix from the ashes. Now at ICQ great amount free stickers and emoticons, a new design, new group chats and, most importantly in our case, quite favorable rates for making calls to regular phone numbers. Tariffs in ICQ can be found by following this link. It is very convenient that you can enter a phone number there and use it to find out the cost of each minute of the conversation.

And to make a call, you need to click the "Phone" button in the menu above, enter the number in the appropriate field and click the "Call" button. There is nothing complicated in this procedure, but it allows you to quickly and efficiently use the tablet as a phone.

Viber

Another very easy to use messenger. You do not need to add any contacts to it - it takes all the information from the phone book itself. For those subscribers who also have Viber installed, you can call using this messenger. For the rest, there are so-called Viber Out calls. It is very convenient that Viber itself imports the entire phone book and, along with each contact, the phone number.

And to make a call, you need to do the following:

  • go to the "Contacts" tab;
  • click on the desired contact;
  • press the "Call Viber Out" button.

Here, too, when connected via WiFi, you can call without a SIM card.

Results

So, once again about everything that is written above in the theses:

  • you can call through a tablet like through a regular phone if it has a GSM module - then it has a standard program for making calls and you need to insert a SIM card into it;
  • if the tablet does not have a GSM module, you can install any messenger on it and make calls to regular phones in the same way.

This is the meaning of all of the above. All this is clearly shown in the video below.

When buying a tablet with the ability to insert a SIM card, one way or another you start to think about whether it can be used to make calls to mobile phone. Depending on the model, various restrictions are imposed on this feature, and some versions do not support the ability to make calls through the built-in card at all. This text will discuss ways to make a call from a tablet and what is needed for this.

Which tablet can be used for calls?

First of all, you should pay attention to the fact that manufacturers supply their equipment in several specifications:

  • With Wi-Fi module;
  • With GSM/3G/4G module;
  • Hybrid models, where all the elements are combined.

The evolution of communication generations

To make calls directly through a SIM card, using the operator's billing, you need the device to meet certain requirements. Many people think that if you can insert a card into a tablet, then this means that you can make calls from it by default. But this is not the case, and it is this feature that marketers actively use to promote goods on the market. Therefore, in addition to the presence of a slot for a SIM card, you need to pay attention to the fact that in technical specification indicates the presence of a GSM module.

GSM is an international mobile data format that works in all countries of the world and still makes the majority of calls worldwide. So, for example, in some developing countries there is still no access even to the 3G network, and 4G is just beginning to be introduced everywhere. Therefore, GSM or the so-called 2G is still the most widespread worldwide. Therefore, it does not matter which company produced the equipment, the main thing is the availability of the required technology. It is worth noting that Apple does not release devices with a GSM module and allows you to make calls only using separate software with the user having an iPhone.

If the tablet is not equipped with a GSM module, calls can be made through third-party services. Such applications have a different principle of operation, since not mobile networks are taken as the basis for transmitting information, but an Internet connection with redirects to the required number. This method is suitable for owners of devices with 3rd and 4th generation mobile Internet support or with a built-in Wi-Fi adapter. We will talk more about this option and special applications a little later.

Calls from a tablet with GSM support

Call interface on tablet

You don't need to install to make phone calls. software from third party developers. The process is as similar as possible to how it happens on conventional smartphones. All that is needed from a person is to insert a SIM card into the slot on which the account has been replenished and check for the presence of an application for calls. If for some reason it was not preinstalled in advance, it can be downloaded from the company's store, which is installed on the tablet. It may differ depending on operating system. On Android - Google Play Market, and on Windows Phone - Microsoft Store, on devices from Apple. Most often desired program can be found through a search for "Phone".

The user can enter the number himself and start a call or synchronize the contact book from a smartphone using a Google or Microsoft account. The numbers stored on the SIM card will be taken as the basis for the contact book. The quality of communication will depend on how good the coverage of the selected mobile operator is in the area from which the call will be made. Call prices will be calculated according to the tariffs set by the operators.

Link level

Internet calls

A method that is gaining more and more popularity due to the fact that mobile Internet is becoming more affordable, and there is a Wi-Fi router in almost every home. It replaces the need for a GSM module, and the quality of communication will depend only on the speed of the Internet connection. For several years now, there have been programs that allow you to use not only a tablet, but also personal computers as a phone. They can be divided into several types:

  • With the ability to call mobile numbers via the Internet;
  • With the ability to call only between users of the application;

In the first case, you can make a call to other smartphones by making a call to the number of the mobile operator. The price will be taken into account depending on the tariff plans of the program used. Depending on the application, they may differ, so you should check the cost of the call in advance. This is a very common technology, which is one of the components of programs such as Skype, Viber and WhatsApp. There are domestic analogues with more affordable tariffs, but they are not so well known to the general consumer.

Whatsapp logo with possible operating systems

In the second option, all calls are made completely free of charge and also, such programs allow you to create video conferences and exchange instant text messages. The technology of such calls works on the principle of VoIP, where the call takes place between two accounts and they are also identifiers in the system. Such a system works in almost all modern instant messengers: Viber, Telegram, WhatsApp and Skype. Recently, through the Vkontakte application, it became possible to dial a friend through a social network.

Not all tablets, especially in the budget segment, have high-quality microphones and a front speaker for talking through the device. Therefore, during the conversation, the interlocutor may hear various noises or sound defects. Most applications solve this problem with noise reduction algorithms and active sound enhancement, but it's better to think about buying a good audio headset. This will allow you to comfortably communicate with friends.

The best apps for talking over the Internet

The obvious leaders among applications that allow you to make calls over the Internet have long been formed on the market. They are available for download on any tablet, not just Android. And it is about them that we will talk now.

Skype

skype logo

The program was one of the first developments that allows you to easily exchange messages and call other people around the world - without facing many problems and restrictions. Using the application, you can make calls to mobile numbers at affordable rates and high quality communication. The only problem with the application is that they can only be made between Skype users, and not to all available numbers. Calls to other Skype accounts over the Internet are completely free.

Viber

Viber Logo

Viber is installed on most smartphones, and this is evidenced by the statistics, which is more than 500 million downloads on Google Play. One way or another, it is used both in business and ordinary users. All thanks to the convenient interface of the messenger and comfortable prices for calls to mobile numbers. The main advantage of the program is that its contact book is synchronized with the device's contact book, so you do not need to add all your friends manually, they will already be displayed there. You can make internet calls to other Viber users, send messages and make calls using ViberOut.

Telegram

Telegram logo

The main advantage of the product is and is the security of storing personal information. All messages and calls will be encrypted and will be on the person's device. At the same time, the product has one of the best indicators in terms of communication quality and ease of information exchange among programs for making calls.

Tablet owners often ask questions, is it possible to use a tablet as a phone and make calls from it? Will it be enough to have a SIM card with 3G support in the tablet? What inexpensive tablets are suitable for the role of dialers.

To get answers to these questions, take a minute of your time for the article.

Can I make calls using a 3G tablet?

Yes, you can. But not from everyone. To make a regular phone call, in addition to having a SIM card and 3G, the tablet must be equipped with a GSM communication module. In addition, if there are no obstacles at the hardware level and the GSM module is installed, the tablet developer could programmatically disable this feature. Using a different firmware for a device with this limitation may not solve the problem.

To determine if it is possible to make calls from a tablet, review the instructions. If in the characteristics it uses UMTS cellular communication technologies (also often called 3GSM to emphasize belonging to GSM), then the device can be used for calls. For example samsung galaxy The Tab E 9.6 has 3G and UMTS and already has a built-in Phone app.

If there is no such application, but the technical documentation indicates that the device can make calls, this means that:

  1. The installed firmware limits the ability to make calls. Install a custom one instead.
  2. Official firmware, which is designed for another country, supports the ability to make calls. Therefore, install the appropriate firmware.

The ability to call is present on tablets that run on MTK chips (for example, Lenovo, VastKing), but not all. To make sure that you can make calls, look for information on the Internet specifically for your tablet model.

How to make calls using the Internet?

To make a call to a mobile phone over 3G internet or Wi-Fi, use any voice communication application that supports calls to landline and mobile numbers. The popular and familiar Skype application has such an opportunity. Skype-to-Skype calls are free, but Microsoft charges the following for phone calls.

  • skype;
  • viber;
  • Hangouts, etc.

Inexpensive calling tablets

To make calls in the GSM network, you can purchase inexpensive devices. Let's take a few models as an example.

ModelVastKing M783K 3G Impression ImPAD 9415 Pixus Touch 8 3G Lenovo Tab2 A7-30DC
Price4000 rub.4600 rub.4600 rub.7300 rub.
Screen diagonal7,85 8 8 7
Screen resolution1024×7681280×8001280×8001024×600
MatrixIPSIPSIPSIPS
Storage device8 GB16 GB16 GB8 GB
USB1 PC.1 PC.1 PC.1 PC.
GPSthere isthere isthere isthere is
OSAndroid 4.2Android 5.1.1Android 5.1Android 4.4
Battery capacity5000 mAh4400 mAh4000 mAh3450 mAh
RAM1 GB1 GB1 GB1 GB
CPUMediaTek MT8389, 1.2 GHzIntel Atom x3-C3230RK, 1.2 GHzMediaTek MTK8382, 1.3GHzMediatek MT8382M, 1.3 GHz
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