Browser-based VoIP: web page code to call over IP (to your VoIP account)

As we know traditionally you would have to download and install the application (software IP phone) on your PC to make calls or have a SIP enabled phone configured with some SIP server and VoIP account, but the advancement in technology means that this is no longer the case.

Many VoIP solutions are now browser-based; all you need is to login to the VoIP website and you can start chatting away.

With a wide range of VoIP options on offer from the basic telephony services to browser-based video conferencing with data file exchanges, selecting the right one for you can be a confusing task. To help you in your decision, here are some providers and the solutions they offer.

The main task that I’ve tried to solve is to have a code that I can post on one web site (e-shop) where customer can push the button and call directly to sales with no any fees or additional software installation. Customer just need to have speakers and mic to hear sales and be able to communicate. These free browser-based VoIP solutions can be used on any platform with most web browsers, they offer the ideal communication medium for a global community.

So here we go:

GizmoCall

This browser-based application has grown in popularity and it isn’t hard to see why. All that is needed to use the application is computer connected to the internet; a headset and a Flash-enabled browser. (Flash version 9 or later is preferred.) PC-to-PC calls are free and while you do have to pay for calls to landlines and mobile phones, the rates are some of the lowest around, starting at 1.9c per minute. It is even possible to set up a caller ID with your mobile; work or home phone number so that your friends and family can see that it is you calling. Of course this additional feature isn’t free, but is worthwhile at only $4.

C2Call
A simple to use java-based applet, C2Call runs directly from your browser so there is no need to download any software – just login and start chatting. You can login from any computer, anywhere in the world which is great for people on the move. Even iPhone users can make calls and send text messages from their phones using this service. An additional benefit of using this service is that you can chat with anyone you want, even if they do not have an account with C2Call and it is totally free, for computer-to-computer communications of course. There is a low rate charged for calls to regular PSTN/mobile phone networks.

Raketu
There are 8 different types of communication modes on offer from Raketu sure to meet the most demanding VoIP requirements. Rak-Rak Call is a free service that enables you to make computer-to-computer calls; Raketu Video Call, again is free and enables you to make video phone calls from any computer irrespective of location as it is also browser-based. If you want to call regular phone lines or mobile phones, there are several options but there is a low rate charged. RakOut Call allows you to make phone calls from your computer to a phone, while RakWeb Call and RakSIP Call offer discounted rates for calls from phones or SIP devices respectively. Call rates start at 0.1289 GBP per minute. Accessing any of theses services is easy as you only need to set up one account. Oh and did I mention that you can even set up a voicemail on your account?

Busta
This easy to use, browser-based VoIP solution works from most web browsers and allows you to make and receive free internet calls to other Busta users, even if they are using a SIP device. It is even free to send and receive video mail and instant messages. There is also a really nifty online chat facility, so you can instantly chat to your contacts listed in your address book. Busta, like most VoIP service providers, also offer low rates for making calls (cell and proper lines) and sending text messages to mobile phones. Their rates start at 1p per minute for UK landline calls and 26p for SMS text messages. As a welcome to their service, Busta give you a few free minutes so it is well worth trying it out.

Babblestream
This unique application allow you to talk to other users over the internet and it can also easily be embedded into your website or blog, making it ideal for social networking sites and e-commerce stores. All you need to do is customise your widget and embed the code into your site. Using peer-to-peer technology, Babblestream enables you to send and receive instant messages, as well as providing one of the few voice solutions for large chat groups.

Tokbox
A great application for the casual user, Tokbox is completely free and perfect for chatting to your friends over the internet. Use it with your favourite instant online messenger, including MSN, AOL and Yahoo, to hold a proper face-to-face video conversation. For fun, why not send a video greeting card to a friend? Simply record a message using Tokbox and enter their email address. Another facet of this web-based browser VoIP application is the ability to hold a video conference session for up to 6 participants and it is still absolutely free.

Eyejot
One of the easiest browser-based VoIP applications around; Eyejot can be used for video conferencing, as well as for sending video mail – best of all, you don’t need to download any software to do it. The only requirements are that you have a good web browser, either Internet Explorer; Safari; Firefox; Netscape or Opera, Adobe Flash 9, a webcam and a microphone. You can even access the website from your mobile phone as long as it supports web browsing and is video enabled.

Thanks to voip-sol.com for the article.