Skype alternative for international calls
Microsoft is retiring Skype in May 2025, leaving many travelers, digital nomads, and small businesses wondering how to continue calling regular mobile and landline numbers over the Internet. Look no further for a Skype alternative for international calls. Sonetel lets you call worldwide at low rates using a mobile app or web app—just like Skype used to—plus it offers additional unique features that Skype never had.
Why Sonetel Is the Perfect Skype Alternative
Sonetel is an international calling service with advanced options for both small businesses and individuals on the go. It delivers cost savings and greater flexibility compared to what Skype used to offer. Here are the main reasons Sonetel stands out:
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Cheaper Local Numbers
Skype has already stopped selling new phone numbers. At its peak, a US Skype number cost about USD 50/year. With Sonetel, you can get a local phone number in 80 countries starting at just USD 1.79 per month—a massive saving. You can also port your existing Skype number to Sonetel if you want to keep it. -
Flexible Call Methods
You can place calls worldwide using the Sonetel app on your mobile or computer, just like Skype. Beyond Internet calls (VoIP), Sonetel also offers:- Call-Thru: The app automatically dials a local Sonetel access number, then connects you onward to the number or contact you called.
- Call-Back: Sonetel calls your mobile phone first, then connects you to your destination.
These options ensure high call quality and cost savings, especially when you have a mobile plan with free local calls.
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Advanced AI Features
Sonetel’s Premium and Business plans (from $9.95/month) include AI-driven capabilities you won’t find in Skype:- Call Summaries & Transcripts: Each call is captured in an easy-to-read text summary with a full transcript.
- Customer Call Analysis: Get a score (1–5) for every customer call, see what worked well, and learn how to improve.
- Draft Follow-Up Emails: Automatically generate post-call emails you can send to the person you spoke with.
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Professional Presence
Sonetel lets you choose which number the people you call see on their Caller ID—your regular mobile or your Sonetel number. Having a dedicated business phone number makes your operations look more professional without compromising your privacy. -
Worldwide Forwarding
If you’re traveling, you can forward incoming calls on your Sonetel number to any local SIM you pick up. This way, you won’t pay hefty roaming fees. People calling your Sonetel number will never know you’re overseas; the forwarding works seamlessly in the background. -
Straightforward Pricing
Sonetel offers competitive pay-as-you-go rates, plus Premium and Business plans with free calling to 40+ countries. There are no hidden fees, and you can pick the plan that suits your needs—whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or managing a team.

How to Get Started with Sonetel
Switching over from Skype to Sonetel is simple. Most types of phone numbers come with a free trial, so you can test things out before committing. Here’s how you can get up and running quickly:
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Sign Up and Pick a Number
Visit Sonetel’s website, choose the country and city where you’d like a local phone number, and create your account. If you have an existing Skype number, explore Sonetel’s porting options to keep using the same number. -
Download the Sonetel App
Sonetel offers apps for both iPhone and Android, as well as a convenient web app for desktop users. Download or access the one that fits your workflow best. -
Configure Your Incoming Calls
Decide whether you’ll answer calls in the Sonetel app (across the Internet) or forward them to your mobile. Forwarding can be free or at local call rates, depending on your plan. -
Start Making Calls
There are three optional ways to make calls with the Sonetel app.- Internet (VoIP): Dial any number worldwide from within the Sonetel app at low rates. This is cheapest, but if you are on the move, bad Internet connectivity can lead to bad call quality.
- Call-Thru: Place a local call first; Sonetel automatically forwards you internationally. Great quality, but you have to pay for the extra call – unless it is included with your regular mobile plan.
- Call-Back: Sonetel calls you first, then connects you to your destination. Great audio quality, but at the cost of two local calls.
Whichever method you choose, the person you’re calling will see the caller ID you’ve configured—either your mobile number or your Sonetel number.
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Activate AI-Driven Services
If you want call summaries, call scoring, and other advanced capabilities, upgrade to one of the Premium or Business plans (from $9.95/month). You’ll see immediate benefits in efficiency and professionalism.

Life After Skype
When Skype switches off in May 2025, you can stay connected through Sonetel. Not only will you maintain the ability to call mobiles and landlines worldwide, but you’ll also gain new features that Skype never offered. Sonetel is used by more than 20,000 paying customers across 170 countries, including small businesses, solo entrepreneurs, and global travelers. It’s a publicly listed company on Nasdaq First North Growth Market in Stockholm, Sweden, providing the financial stability and transparency that give you peace of mind. A perfect Skype alternative for international calls.
- Better Global Coverage
Access local numbers in 80 countries at affordable rates. - Professional AI Insights
Quickly summarize calls, analyze performance, and follow up efficiently. - Scalable for Teams or Individuals
Whether you’re a solo freelancer or a growing business, Sonetel adapts to your needs.

Ready to Make the Switch?
Migrating from Skype to Sonetel is straightforward, and you don’t have to wait until Skype officially goes offline. Set up your account now to see how seamlessly Sonetel handles international calling, voicemail, call-forwarding, and more.
- Try a Sonetel Number
Get a new local number starting at $1.79/month—or port your existing Skype number to Sonetel. - Test the Premium AI Features
Enjoy advanced AI call summaries, call scoring, voicemail transcripts, and follow-up emails. - Invite Your Team
Collaborate seamlessly with teammates or freelancers under one unified communications solution. - Enjoy Seamless Connectivity
Keep calling worldwide, whether by Internet, Call-Thru, or Call-Back, without losing your personal or business presence.
Don’t let Skype’s retirement disrupt your global connectivity. Try Sonetel for free and experience a new world of affordable, high-quality calling features designed for businesses and travelers alike. An affordable and easy Skype alternative for international calls.