Tesco Offers Skype-Like Smartphone Calling App

Tesco has introduced a Skype-like smartphone application that allows users to make low-cost calls to or from foreign countries via a Wi-Fi connection.

The software, called Tesco Calling Card, is aimed at holidaymakers and football fans travelling to the World Cup in Brazil. Available for the iPhone and Android devices, the app would allow a user to make a 30 minute call from Brazil to the UK for 60p, compared to the £60 that they would typically pay to use a hotel telephone, Tesco said. An hour-long call from Spain would cost 30p.

Low-cost calls

Those connecting to other users of the app can make calls and send free messages, Tesco said. The app does, however, require an Internet connection.

“The new app offers an even more convenient and cost effective way to keep in touch with loved ones over the summer, whether that be from the sun lounger to back home, or from the sofa in the UK to family living overseas,” Tesco stated.

The app is free to download, and users are automatically credited with £1; they can gain another £2 credit by referring another user. Customers can top-up via their handset or by purchasing cards in-store. Credit is valid for only 90 days after purchase or topping up, unlike Skype credits, which have no such expiry date.

Tesco said it has already sold half a million units of its low-cost Hudl tablet, and announced it is planning a smartphone.

The supermarket also offers 4G services via Tesco Mobile.

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