Will International Phone Calls Become Cheap in the Future?

There is a common belief that international phone calls are expensive due to the fees and tariffs charged by various parties. However, is there a future where these costs may decrease or even disappear? Let's explore the factors influencing the cost of international calls and where we might be headed in the near future.

Current Costs and Providers

Compared to the luxury of a new luxury car like a Lexus or a simple local call within the same country, international calls are indeed more expensive. The cost structure of international calls in some countries can be crippling for ordinary citizens. For instance, in North Korea, an international call might carry a high risk or even a death penalty. With limited providers, particularly government monopolies, there is little competition, leading to less incentive to lower costs.

The Evolution of International Calls

It might seem illogical that international calls could still be so expensive when data usage is increasing rapidly. The traditional concept of "long distance" has been largely replaced by Voice-over-Internet-Protocol (VoIP) services. VoIP technology routes calls over the internet, making the cost of making an international call much less than the old circuit-based methods of connecting two lines.

Shift towards VoIP and Voice Streaming

While each telecommunication company has its own pricing structure, the trend is to offer competitive rates. Many users, especially tech-savvy ones, are choosing to use VoIP services rather than traditional phone calls to save money. Platforms like Skype, Vonnage, Facebook, and even Google's video streaming services are becoming popular alternatives for both personal and business communications.

Less Significant “Long Distance” Costs

The traditional idea of "long distance" is becoming increasingly irrelevant. With the vast deployment of VoIP technology, the cost structure of connecting two users across the globe is no different from connecting two users in the same city. Major carriers are beginning to recognize that charging extra for international calls does not align with the modern technological landscape. The argument is that such charges are unnecessary and costly for users.

The Future is Here: Embracing VoIP Technologies

The world is becoming smaller due to rapid technological advancements. Telecommunication companies are adapting to this trend by adopting competitive pricing for all calls, whether local or international. By moving towards VoIP and voice streaming technologies, the cost barriers for making international calls are easing.

With the increasing popularity of VoIP services and the ongoing advancements in technology, it is highly likely that international phone calls will eventually become much cheaper, if not free for most users. The future of international communication is not just promising but nearly inevitable.