Twigby service is not available outside the U.S. However, many of our customers that have iPhones and Android smartphones use simple technology to stay connected via Wi-Fi. With this, staying in touch when you travel internationally could be easier and more affordable (possibly free) than you think with the use of apps.
Ways to Stay Connected:
Android Smartphone - Google Duo
Google Duo is a free calling and video chat app that comes preinstalled on Android phones. You don’t need a Google account to use Google Duo, but you do have to verify your phone number and allow access to your contact’s list. Duo works over both Wi-Fi and cellular data. However, you can make Google Duo use Wi-Fi only which can be ideal when traveling.
How to make Google Duo only use Wi-Fi:
- Open the "Settings" app on your phone
- Locate "Data Usage"
- Turn "Mobile Data" off
If for some reason your Android does not have Google Duo on it, you can download the app from the Google Play Store here.
Apple iPhone - iMessage and FaceTime
When your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi, group texting and picture/video messages can be sent to other Apple devices (iPhone, iPad. Mac, etc) using iMessage.
How to turn iMessage and FaceTime on or off:
- Go to "Settings" > "Messages" and turn on or off iMessage
- Go to "Settings" > "FaceTime" and turn on or off FaceTime
- Restart your device
If for some reason they do not activate, please see this Apple troubleshooting guide.
Apps for Android Smartphones and Apple iPhones
Viber Messenger (Twigby Customer Top Pick)
Viber Messenger is a free app that can be used on both Androids and iPhones to keep you in touch with people back home when you’re traveling abroad. When connected to Wi-Fi, using Viber Messenger to stay in touch is free and easy. You will create a Viber account by signing up with your phone number. After your account is successfully created, you will be able to make phone calls, video calls, and send text messages all for free. Just be sure that the friends and family you want to stay in contact with is using the Viber Messenger app too. The Viber Messenger app is available for download on both Android and iPhone.
WhatsApp Messenger (Twigby Customer Top Pick)
WhatsApp Messenger is a free messaging and calling app that uses your phone number as an identifier. The app is available for both Android and iPhone. WhatsApp will work over a Wi-Fi network to let you message and call friends and family who also have WhatsApp Messenger downloaded on their phone. Switch from SMS to WhatsApp to send and receive message, calls, photos, videos, documents, and voice messages. Call or message your friends and family even if they’re in another country. There is no extra charge! Download WhatsApp Messenger on your Android or your iPhone.
Messenger (Twigby Customer Top Pick)
Messenger is an app that allows you to send messages and make calls for free when connected to Wi-Fi. Initially, Messenger started out as app for Facebook users, but you don’t need a Facebook account to use Messenger anymore. If you aren’t on Facebook, you can use Messenger by creating an account with just your name and phone number. If you are on Facebook, you can use Messenger by logging in through your Facebook account. Message, call, or video chat your friends and family near and far. Don’t forget that the people who you will want to stay in contact with using Messenger will need to have the Messenger app as well. The Messenger app is available for both Android and iPhone.
So there you have it. If you are preparing for your next international trip, whether you’re traveling for business or are about to have an overseas adventure, staying connected in today’s world is easy and free. Now just remember the time differences 😊.
Comments