The VoIP provider described as a low-cost alternative to Skype in the 2010 article was Nymgo, a prepaid internet-calling service. That comparison is historical: Microsoft retired consumer Skype on May 5, 2025, and Nymgo’s current availability and prices have not been verified.
What was Nymgo?
Larry Hettick’s July 9, 2010 Network World article described Nymgo as a prepaid VoIP service for calling landlines and wireless phones over broadband. It used SIP-based internet calls, and its founder, Omar Onsi, described the goal as “connecting calls for the cheapest rate possible.”
The article reported that Nymgo’s network had carried 200 million minutes since the company’s 2008 founding. It also reported Skype’s claim that the service handled 3.1 billion minutes in Q3 2009, representing 12% of global international calling minutes. That market-share figure was Skype’s claim, not an independently established measurement.
Was Nymgo cheaper than Skype?
In the 2010 comparison, the reported per-minute rates favored Nymgo for the listed destinations. These are historical figures from Network World, not current prices or a present-day ranking.
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| Destination | Nymgo, per minute | Skype, per minute |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $0.004 (Network World, 2010) | $0.021 (Network World, 2010) |
| India | $0.013 (Network World, 2010) | $0.092 (Network World, 2010) |
| China | $0.008 (Network World, 2010) | not stated (Network World, 2010) |
The article said rates varied by destination and could be higher for some mobile calls. Its figures do not establish what either service charges now, and they should not be used to choose a current international calling provider.
What happened to Skype?
Microsoft retired consumer Skype on May 5, 2025. In its support notice, Microsoft directed users to Teams Free for chats and contacts. For users with a Skype Number who want to transfer it, Microsoft says to contact a new carrier. The notice does not establish Teams Free as a full replacement for Skype’s paid calls to ordinary telephone numbers.
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- Supports 2 SIP profiles through 2 FXS ports and a single 10/100Mbps port
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- Automated provisioning options include TR-069 and XML config files
- LED indicators - POWER, NET, PHONE1, PHONE2 Supports 3-way voice conferencing Failover SIP server automatically switches to secondary server if main server loses connection
- Supports T.38 Fax for creating Fax-over-IP
Can you use Nymgo now?
Nymgo’s current operating status, service availability, supported destinations, and rates are unverified. The 2010 article is not evidence that the service remains active today. Check directly with a provider before relying on it for calls or committing money.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to check when replacing Skype calling
If you need to call ordinary landline or mobile numbers rather than only message other app users, compare services on the details that affect your use:
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Rank #3
- Supports 2 SIP profiles and 2 FXS ports
- Strong AES encryption with security certificate per unit
- Supports T.38 Fax for reliable Fax-over-IP
- High performance NAT router
- 3-way voice conferencing per port
- Destination coverage: Confirm the countries and specific landline or mobile networks you need are supported.
- Current call charges: Check per-minute rates, connection fees, taxes, and whether mobile calls cost more than landline calls.
- Payment terms: Establish whether the service is prepaid, requires recurring payments, or has account-balance expiry rules.
- Number transfer: If you have a Skype Number, ask the receiving carrier whether it can port that number and what conditions apply.
- Calling method: Confirm whether calls use an app, a browser, or a SIP client and whether broadband or other equipment is required.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
