A payphone is a public telephone that requires users to pay a fee to make calls. Typically found in places like streets, airports, and train stations, payphones accept coins, credit cards, or prepaid phone cards. They provide a way for people without personal phones to communicate, especially in emergencies. Although their use has declined due to the rise of mobile phones, payphones still serve important functions in some areas. They are often maintained by telecommunications companies and can be crucial for those who may not have access to a cell phone or internet service.