In the fast-evolving world of digital communication, messaging apps like GroupMe have become an essential tool for staying connected. With its group-based messaging functionality, simple layout, and cross-platform compatibility, GroupMe is widely used among students, friends, families, and even coworkers. But with so many messaging platforms offering voice call functionality, a common question users ask is: Can you make voice calls on GroupMe?

The short answer is no. As of now, GroupMe does not support native voice or video calling capabilities. Although the platform excels in providing group text messaging and media sharing, it falls short when it comes to live communication via voice or video.

Why Doesn’t GroupMe Offer Voice Calling?

GroupMe was originally developed as a group messaging app focusing on simplicity and inclusivity across devices, including SMS support. Its target was to offer a low-barrier, easy-to-use group chatting experience that anyone, regardless of smartphone type, could use. Adding voice and video calling would complicate its minimalist design and diverge from its core mission.

Moreover, GroupMe is owned by Microsoft, which also has a powerful communications tool—Skype. By not including voice calling directly in GroupMe, Microsoft can maintain clear product differentiation without overlapping features unnecessarily.

How Do Users Work Around This Limitation?

Even though GroupMe doesn’t support voice calling out-of-the-box, users have found workarounds to fill the gap when voice communication is needed. Here are a few common methods:

• Using phone calls: If you’re in a GroupMe chat and need to talk to someone, you can simply call them directly using your phone’s calling feature.
• Using other apps: Many users switch to apps like Skype, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams if a group voice call is necessary. Since GroupMe users often overlap with Skype users thanks to Microsoft’s ecosystem, the transition is quite seamless.
• Sharing links: Some groups use GroupMe to coordinate and then share links to scheduled voice or video calls in other apps. For example, a Zoom or Google Meet link can be sent in a GroupMe chat so that everyone can join.

Is There a Demand for Voice Calling?

Absolutely. As remote communication becomes more common, especially in academic and professional settings, voice and video call functionality is increasingly expected in messaging apps. Users enjoy the immediacy and personal connection that voice communication offers, something that texts can’t always provide.

Despite this, GroupMe has remained consistent in maintaining a simple, clean experience focused on group messaging. This approach appeals to users who prefer minimal distractions and complexity. However, with competing platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Discord offering both text and voice communications, some users do express hope that GroupMe will eventually integrate more real-time communication features.

Alternative Apps with Voice Calling

If voice calls are a must-have for your communication needs, consider the following alternatives that blend group messaging with voice functionality:

• WhatsApp – Offers free voice and video calls along with encrypted text messaging.
• Discord – Popular with gaming communities, it provides high-quality voice channels and group chats.
• Telegram – Allows voice chats in groups and one-on-one calls with high security.
• Signal – Provides secure voice and video calls, trusted for its strong privacy features.

Conclusion

While GroupMe is a highly efficient and user-friendly messaging app, it does have its limitations, particularly when it comes to voice communication. Don’t expect to initiate a voice or video call within the app itself anytime soon. However, the app still holds its place as a popular tool for coordinating and chatting in groups, especially for casual or academic purposes where text communication suffices.

If voice interaction is crucial for your group’s communication, pairing GroupMe with another app or switching to a more comprehensive platform might be the right move. Either way, understanding GroupMe’s capabilities—and its gaps—will help you use it more effectively.