Viber, the popular messaging app, has officially launched its new feature, called Viber Out. This new feature lets Viber users make calls to mobile and landline phones worldwide, much like Skype Out. In fact, the similarity can even be figured out by the name, as both include the word “out.”
This new feature was first launched in the Philippines last month after the devastating typhoon to help victims connect with their loved ones. At that time, the feature was in its testing phase, but not any more.
Skype gets new competition
Similar to Skype’s calling service, Viber Out lets users purchase credit via in-app purchases by using a credit card on the desktop app, or from the web. Once credit is purchased, the user can start making calls to mobiles and landline phones, even if the user doesn’t use the Viber app.
To use Viber Out, you don’t even need to update the app. Just launch the app, visit the “More” tab and choose Viber Out. From there, purchase Viber Out credit and get started.
Viber Out is available for Android, iOS and Desktop, with a Windows Phone version coming soon.
Viber also earning from Stickers
Apart from Viber Out, the company is also adding more and more stickers to its Sticker Market, which is also a source for generating revenue by the app. So right now it can be said that the app generates revenue from two sources – Viber Stickers and Viber Out.
With this new offering, Viber stands out from other messaging apps like WhatsApp, Line, WeChat and others. Those who’re searching for a low-cost option for international calling will want to try out Viber Out, as the user only needs to pay a low per-minute rate. Talmon Marco, CEO of Viber said, “We will continue to improve Viber Out, keeping our users connected at the most affordable rates possible.”