Free US Calls on iPad: A Simple Guide
Transform Your iPad into a Telephone with Whistle Phone
The iPad’s inherent portability establishes it as a versatile communication tool, facilitating connection with friends and family through various means like chat, email, Twitter, and Facebook. Furthermore, the free iPad application, Whistle Phone, empowers you to utilize your iPad as a fully functional telephone.
Expanding Communication Options
While an iPad won't entirely supersede a traditional mobile phone, Whistle Phone [iTunes link] presents an accessible and, crucially, free solution for individuals residing outside the United States to acquire a dedicated US phone number. This allows for both initiating and receiving phone calls. Notably, the application isn’t exclusive to iPad users.
It is also offered as a complimentary download for iPhone users, alongside desktop iterations compatible with both Mac OS X and Windows operating systems.
Account Creation and Setup
Upon initial launch, the application will request that you either establish a new account, utilize an existing Whistle account, or employ a pre-existing SIP account.
Registration is streamlined, requiring only your name, email address, and a chosen password.
Selecting a Phone Number
Following successful login, you are prompted to select a preferred area code. Initially, the area code corresponding to my desired location was unavailable. However, a subsequent email notification informed me of its availability, enabling a number change. Whistle allows for one complimentary number alteration post-registration.
Making and Receiving Calls
To initiate outbound calls, a brief 20-second audio segment must be listened to – a minor inconvenience considering the service is offered at no cost. Inbound callers to your Whistle number will also encounter a short introductory message stating, "Please hold while I connect to your party."
Push Notification Functionality
The application’s description indicates support for push notifications, ensuring call reception even when the app operates in the background. However, during testing with multiple incoming calls, we were unable to consistently activate this feature.
Additional Features
Whistle not only facilitates free call making and receiving, but also supports two simultaneous lines, preventing missed calls during existing conversations and enabling conference calls with up to two contacts.
The app seamlessly integrates with your iPad/iPhone contact list, or your computer’s address book, simplifying the process of dialing known numbers.
Call Management Tools
During calls, functionalities such as caller hold, microphone muting, redialing the last number, and accessing a call history log are readily available.
Follow Me Feature and In-App Purchases
Whistle’s “Follow Me” feature allows US residents to connect their Whistle number to other phone lines. The service automatically dials up to five designated numbers if the Whistle phone is unavailable, or alternatively, forwards unanswered calls to a voicemail service. Accessing this feature necessitates an in-app purchase.
Number Reclamation Policy
It is important to note that inactivity for a period exceeding four weeks will result in the reclamation of your assigned phone number.
Minor Glitches and Improvements
Despite the valuable service it provides, the application exhibits some minor imperfections. Beyond the inconsistent push notifications, accessing the app’s settings consistently requires re-authentication. An option to retain login credentials would enhance user experience.
Account Management and Additional Services
From the settings menu, users can add funds to their account for international calls, disable advertisements for US calling, and configure the “Follow Me” service.
Desktop Availability
A version of the application is also available for Mac [Mac App Store link] via the Mac App Store, mirroring the functionality of the iPad/iPhone counterpart.
Share Your Experience
Have you had the opportunity to utilize Whistle? We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with the service in the comments section below.
