Free calls to Facebook friends

A new Android and iPhone app allows Facebook users to make free calls to others with the app.

The app works over 3G or Wi-Fi and there are no international calling fees or roaming charges when on Wi-Fi. You don’t use your cellular minutes either, you just pay for the data used – just like the Skype app.

Theoretically anyone you've accepted as a friend on Facebook can call your phone if they have the app installed. So you might want to cull a few of those random friends you’ve acquired over the years.

This issue will be addressed in a future update to the app.

A spokesperson for the app said, “I expect that's the case [that people don't want every one of their Facebook friends being able to call their mobile phone]. Certainly you always have ability to decline a call. Incoming calls will ring your phone and users still have the option to decline or accept.

"Future releases will also add a call block capability. A consumer can always choose not to download the application or de-friend someone on Facebook. This app adheres to all Facebook's rights and responsibilities."

Here’s what you do:

• Download the app from the iTunes App Store or the Android Market.
• Launch the app and log in with your Facebook username and password.
• Allow it to access various bits of your information.
• Now you're ready to make your first free call to any of your Facebook friends who have the app.

The app will also turn your iPod Touch into a phone providing you’ve got a headset and there's an iPad version already in development.

As the app’s relatively new to the market you might be the only one on your friends list with the app, so spread the word. Find out more here or search for ‘Vonage’ on your app store