Calling overseas without installing an app
Ways to call family abroad when you don't want, or they can't use, another app.
Updated 1 October 2026
Calling apps are great when everyone has the same app and a good connection. When that isn't the case, there are other ways to reach someone abroad without installing anything new.
When an app isn't the answer
- The person you're calling has a basic phone, or no mobile data.
- Their internet connection is patchy, or some apps work badly where they live.
- You're on a work computer or shared device where you can't install software.
- You'd rather not add another app, account and set of notifications.
Your options
Your own phone plan. Any UK mobile or landline can dial abroad (00, the country code, then the number). It's simple, but international calls are usually charged on top of your plan, so check your provider's rates or add-ons first.
Browser calling. Services like DanaTel run in the web browser you already have. You call from a web page; the other person answers their normal phone. You need an internet connection, they don't.
Calling from your browser with DanaTel
- Open danatel.net on your phone or computer and create a free account.
- Add credit from £5 by card.
- Type the number with its country code, for example +92 for Pakistan.
- Press Call and allow the microphone when your browser asks.
You pay a per-minute rate shown before you dial, billed in 6-second steps, and unanswered calls cost nothing. On a phone, you can add DanaTel to your home screen so it opens like an app without installing one.