It’s a fact. Girls love to talk. Girls love to show off their latest haircut to their friend in another country. Mums love to catch up with travelling children. Aunties love to see their new nieces and nephews, on the other side of the world.

It’s also a fact that the cost of calling someone (whether from home phone or mobile) is ridiculously high when you’re in New Zealand.

Add these two together (with increasing numbers of friends and family located overseas) and you’ve got an expensive phone bill on your hands.

Enter the wonder of internet calling. Free, long (or short) distance calls, with or without video  conferencing facilities are being used by increasing numbers of kiwis as they stay in touch with loved ones all around the world. It’s not a new revolution, in fact it’s been around for sometime now, but if it all feels a little bit over your head check out our easy guide to Skyping and the tools you need to stay in touch…

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What you need:

Computer with in built microphone/webcam
A lot of computers these days, particularly Macs, come with a built in webcam and microphone. Also good, are the portable net-books with built in web cams that are around from the likes of Asus, HP etc.

OR a computer with portable accessories such as microphones or webcams
Alternatively, you can purchase accessories such as headsets, microphones or webcams that give you internet calling ability.

While most headsets look to the future and feature handsfree functionality, some like the YUBZ hark back to the days of old. Webcams, like the LifeCam are great because they can go with you anywhere and their bendable attachment base makes them good for placing on any surface.

Internet calling software
Free software like Skype and Windows Live Messenger (MSN all grown up) gives you the ability to phone or video conference with friends and family.

Internet connection , preferably broadband
You do need to be connected to the internet, and unfortunately dial-up just won’t cut it.

nzgirl picks…

The Headset: Yubz Talk Online
Skype Star: Screw handsfree practicality, this is all about retro chic. Probably cooler for the generation that didn’t have these the first time around.
What is it? A USB plug-in phone headset, modeled on a retro telephone.
RRP: $US 44.95 + delivery.
More info and to buy: www.yubz.com

The Webcam: Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000
Skype Star: Perfect for those computers that don’t come with a built in webcam.
What is it? A portable USB webcam, with crystal clear audio, echo cancellation (no feedback), auto focus and light adjust. Great flexible attachment base.
RRP: $99.00
More info: www.microsoft.co.nz

The Travel Computer: Asus Eee PC 4G XP
Skype Star: Some call it a netbook, today we’re calling this the travelling computer! Perfect to have in your bag when
you're overseas to ensure you can stay in touch with everyone.
What is it? A light mini computer, internet compatible and with a built in webcam makes it perfect for stowing away on your travels and touching base with family and friends.
RRP: $599
More info: www.asus.com

Tee

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