OK. Here's the scoop, which I have verified during my 3 week trip to Europe. You can use Skpye as your phone service when you are not in range of your primary cell phone provider. The steps are:
1. Download the Skype app. Do not download or use the Verizon Skype app, which is called "Skype Mobile." These are different beasts! It is Skype Mobile that restricts you to using its data network.
2. Be sure to set up your Skype account with an automatic replenishment of minutes: say 20 minutes at a time. That way, you won't be cut off of a conversation in mid-stream.
3. To use Skype, turn on Airplane mode.
4. Go to Settings.Data Manager.DataDelivery. Uncheck both "Background data" and "Data enabled." I don't think this is absolutely necessary, but I don't want to be surprised by roaming data charges.
5. Start your wifi (To use Skype you must be wifi connected and the connection must be a good one)
6. Start the wifi app and perform the necessary actions to log on to Skype.
7. Make the call.
A real convenience: Skype links to your regular google contacts! So you don't have to enter phone numbers, etc. Once in Skype, to dial the phone number of someone in your google contacts, tap the "all contacts" icon and enter a search string.
A note on making a phone call: The call is more like a walkie-talkie call. You both can't speak at the same time! It is the kind of thing where you talk and then say "over" to let the other person talk.
With respect to setting the phone to wifi: wifi uses a lot of power. Turn it off whenever you can.
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