Localcall vs Skype at a glance
A modern Skype alternative, especially now that Skype has been shut down.
Microsoft retired Skype in 2025, leaving millions looking for a replacement. Localcall picks up where it left off: call supported landlines and mobiles straight from your browser, with live translation and pay-as-you-go credits, and no app to install.
Localcall vs Skype at a glance
| Feature | Localcall | Skype |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Pay-as-you-go per minute | Subscription + Skype Credit (service retired in 2025) |
| Live translation | Built in, two-way | AI translation in-app (now discontinued) |
| App required | No, Localcall runs directly in your browser. | Yes, Localcall offers both a desktop and mobile app. |
| Calls real phone numbers | Yes, you can call supported landline and mobile numbers. | Yes, via Skype Credit (discontinued) |
| Pay as you go | Yes — valid for 12 months | Credit-based |
| Global coverage | 200+ countries | Most countries while active |
Migrating from Skype calls
Use Localcall when the job was Skype Credit: calling a real landline or mobile abroad. Keep the workflow simple by opening the browser dialer, entering the number, checking the rate, and calling without installing a replacement app.
20-minute cost example
A 20-minute direct call is priced from the destination rate shown before dialing; use the cost calculator before the call if you need a budget number.
- Replacing Skype Credit
- Calling banks, airlines, hotels, and relatives
- Browser-first international calls
- Free app-to-app video calls
- Microsoft account chat history
- Teams meetings
Use live translation when the person or business you are calling does not speak your language confidently.
Use an AI agent for routine calls such as checking hours, confirming a reservation, or asking a scripted question.
When to choose Localcall
Choose Localcall if you relied on Skype to call real phone numbers abroad and want a browser-based replacement with live translation built in. There's nothing to download, and you only pay for the minutes you talk.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Localcall calls real landlines and mobiles from your browser with pay-as-you-go pricing and live translation. These are the core functionalities people used Skype for, now without an app.