Skype and Hushed are two popular communication platforms that offer voice calling capabilities, allowing users to connect with others over the Internet. Hushed is a relatively newer application that allows users to make private calls using newer technologies than those used by services like Skype, which is used for secure communication over VoIP. Hushed is more like a second phone number that is perfect for secure communication. In this article, we look at the two platforms and the key differences between Skype and Hushed.

Skype

Skype is a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service used for voice, video, and instant messaging communications. It is a remote communication platform owned by Microsoft and it was the first company to offer internet calling. It is simple to use and you can reach out to people across continents, countries, and time zones to make audio and video calls, send text messages, and transfer files.

Hushed

 Hushed is a popular second number app that provides temporary disposable phone numbers for calling, allowing you to keep your real phone number safe and secure. It allows you to add a second number to your phone and gives you access to calls similar to your carrier. You can use it call anonymously to anyone, without a SIM card.

Key Differences between Skype and Hushed

Communication Platform

– Skype is primarily a VoIP service that uses the internet as the network, allowing users to make voice and video calls anywhere in the world from computer to computer free of charge. It integrates voice and instant messaging into one single application. Hushed, however, is a virtual phone app that provides temporary disposable numbers to protect users’ personal information during calls and texts. Hushed uses data connectivity and Wi-Fi to operate.

Privacy

– Skype is more than two decades old and is still very different from other internet voice applications for many reasons. It does offer end-to-end encryption but requires you to sign up for the application with your personal information, which compromises anonymity. Skype is a more general-purpose app that was not strictly designed for privacy. Hushed, on the other hand, was designed on the premise of secure communication providing enhanced privacy with temporary second numbers. You don’t have to give your personal details when signing up.

Features

– Skype is a full-featured and stable communication platform that is built on a mature peer-to-peer (P2P) networking technology that traverses the majority of firewalls and NAT devices that are needed for broadband connectivity. It mainly focuses on voice and video calling, group calling, messaging, and file sharing. Hushed is more focused on private communication and provides a wide variety of privacy features, such as disposable numbers, anonymous calling, screenshot detection, etc.

Number Usage

– Skype uses your real phone number and a unique Skype ID which is tied to your account to identify users. You can look for other Skype users using their Skype names, email addresses, and phone numbers. You simply put any one of these in the search bar and you’re good to go. Hushed, however, offers disposable phone numbers, allowing users to have a second phone line for calling and texting without having to share their real phone number. Once you’re done with those numbers, you can discard them.

Pricing

– Because Skype communication signals are carried over the internet, Skype to Skype calls are free, eliminating the major costs associated with traditional phone systems. However, you need a little Skype Credit or a subscription to make a mobile or landline call from Skype. International calling starts from as low as $3 per month. Hushed is a subscription-based service which offers three plans: Prepaid Plans starting at $2.99, Unlimited Subscriptions starting at $4.99 a month, and Pay-as-you-Go International Plans from $6.99.

Skype vs. Hushed: Comparison Chart

Summary 

At the end of the day, the right choice depends on your requirements and preferences. If you’re looking for a free VoIP app for voice and video calling, messaging, and file sharing for both personal and business use, then Skype is the perfect option. If you seek complete privacy while making calls and chatting, Hushed is the more appropriate option because it provides temporary second phone numbers to stop your calls from being snooped on. So, the ultimate choice comes down to your needs.

FAQs

Is FaceTime better than Skype?

FaceTime is Apple’s answer to Skype and is popular among Apple users, thanks to its seamless integration with iOS devices, proving superb-quality audio and video calls. Skype, however, is a cross-platform VoIP service that offers free Skype to Skype calls and affordable international calls. The choice between the two depends on your device and desired features.

Does Apple have a Skype equivalent?

Apple has FaceTime, which is a great audio and video calling service built into the iOS ecosystem. FaceTime allows free calling from Apple to Apple using cellular data or Wi-Fi.

Is Skype still the best?

Skype was the leading communication platform but has been facing fierce competition from other popular apps such as Zoom, Meet, WhatsApp, etc. Besides, Skype is a popular choice for audio and video calling. 

Do people still use Skype in 2023?

Yes, people still use Skype. However, it’s safe to say that its popularity has declined significantly due to the rise of other popular communication apps.

What is replacing Skype?

There are many potential alternatives to Skype, such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Discord. These apps offer better video quality, more features, and are widely compatible with different devices than Skype.

Can you receive texts on Skype number?

Yes, you can receive texts if you have a Skype number. As of now, only U.S. Skype numbers can receive test messages.

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