A public phone is a telephone that is available for use by the general public, typically found in places like streets, airports, and train stations. These phones allow individuals to make calls without needing a personal phone. Users usually pay for calls using coins, prepaid cards, or credit cards. Public phones have become less common due to the rise of mobile phones, but they still serve important functions in areas with limited cell service or for people who do not own a mobile device. They are often maintained by telecommunications companies, such as AT&T or Verizon.