How much do calls on WhatsApp cost - briefly?
WhatsApp calls are free of charge when made using Wi-Fi or mobile data. However, standard data rates may apply if you are not connected to Wi-Fi.
How much do calls on WhatsApp cost - in detail?
The cost of making calls on WhatsApp can vary depending on several factors, but it is generally more affordable than traditional phone calls due to its reliance on the internet for communication.
Firstly, it's important to note that WhatsApp itself does not charge users directly for voice or video calls made through its platform. The app uses your device’s internet connection—whether Wi-Fi or mobile data—to facilitate these communications. Therefore, the primary cost associated with WhatsApp calls is tied to your internet service provider (ISP) and your specific data plan.
For users who have unlimited data plans or are connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network, making calls on WhatsApp is essentially free. In this scenario, you can engage in voice or video conversations without incurring any additional charges beyond what you already pay for your internet service.
However, for those with limited data plans, the cost of WhatsApp calls will depend on how much data is consumed during the call. The amount of data used varies based on the quality of the call and whether it's a voice or video call. Generally, a standard-quality voice call uses around 0.15 MB per minute, while a high-quality voice call can consume up to 0.7 MB per minute. Video calls are more data-intensive, with estimates ranging from 3 MB to 12 MB per minute depending on the resolution and quality of the video stream.
To put this into perspective, if you have a data plan that includes 5 GB of data per month, you could potentially make several hundred minutes of voice calls or dozens of minutes of video calls before reaching your data limit. However, it's crucial to monitor your data usage to avoid unexpected charges from your ISP.
In summary, while WhatsApp does not charge users for making calls directly, the cost is indirectly tied to your internet data plan. For users with unlimited data or Wi-Fi access, WhatsApp calls are effectively free. However, those with limited data plans should be mindful of their usage to avoid additional fees from their ISP.