If your friends, family and loved ones are in far flung places then you could make use of video calls to bridge the gap and keep up-to-date with all the latest news.



You may have noticed phone and calling cards are available to get discounted calls but did you know you can use the internet to make video calls and collect voicemail as well as a host of other useful features?



The phone and calling cards usually have a special code which you type in before dialing the number you want to telephone. The call rates tend to vary and if you read the small print it usually states that after your first call you have a limited time, usually just thirty days, to use the credit remaining on the card.



Phone cards can usually only be used within one country so you wouldn't be able to make use of them if you travel abroad.



One of the main benefits of using the internet to make your telephone and video calls is being able to stay in touch no matter where in the world you, and your friends, are.



Video calls are becoming increasingly popular, especially if those closest to you live far away. Video calling is a fairly recent development that has taken the communication world by storm and is now being used by millions of people worldwide.



The features of video calls mean you can use your computer to have conversations with your nearest and dearest whilst seeing them on screen as well so it's almost as good as being there in person!



Even those with basic computer skills will be able to master video calling with relative ease. All you need to be able to make video calls is a computer, broadband internet connection and webcam.



You will also need to choose which provider you want to use for your video calls and then register online with them. It is important that you and your video call companions have broadband as video calls require a larger bandwidth to properly support the functions.



Once you have registered with your provider the next thing you need to do is set up your webcam which is basically a simple video camera that sits on top of your computer monitor. These nifty devices allow you to share real life in real time and vary from standard to enhanced quality.



Setting up your webcam should be as easy as 1-2-3 as it's usually just a matter of plugging the camera into your computer and running an installation CD. If you have a new laptop then you may already have a built-in camera which you can use.



You should now be ready to make a video call so there is no need for calling cards and you can talk to your friends and family from the comfort of your own home.



Matthew Pressman writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.