02.02.09
Mobile VoIP: cheap long-distance calls on the go
Nowadays mobile phones can be used for a wide range of applications; regardless, one thing they can’t usually be used for is making calls at low cost. Certainly, rates for long distance and roaming calls have been dropping; but calling your friends, family and business associates overseas can still be expensive. Provided you’re someone who frequently makes international calls, there’s a good chance you’ve been having a hard time finding a really inexpensive plan; this is where VoIP might really do the trick.
So What is VoIP?
At this point you might be curious about mobile VoIP, but let’s pause to consider the meaning of VoIP itself. Short for Voice-over Internet Protocol, VoIP is an emerging technology that allows you to make phone calls over an internet connection, bypassing all the costly taxes and fees associated with good old analog lines. By choosing this technology, both home and business users will get access to various exclusive benefits that go beyond cost savings: some examples are audio conferencing, call blocking and fax-to-email support. All of these unique advantages available from a mobile phone boil down to nothing less than a superior communications platform.
What You Need.
There are some important considerations, for everyone who wishes to make the change from analog to VoIP phone calls. First and foremost, you need a mobile handset with wireless connectivity using a technology such as Wi-Fi, EVDO, HSDPA or the increasingly popular 3G. Second, you’ll need to sign up with a mobile phone provider that actually supports VoIP software. Choosing the right provider is essential as the requirements vary from company to company. Mobile VoIP providers which focus Wi-Fi will be likely to demand you’re on a Wi-Fi network before making calls. On the other hand, there are multi-network providers which let you choose the best connection before placing calls.
Impairments
Granted, mobile VoIP provides several advantages; but there are some drawbacks that you should know about. Since VoIP is based on wireless connection, the biggest drawback is the requirement to establish a Wi-Fi connection before making calls. If you happen to go out on the country or simply out in an urban area lacking wireless connectivity (there are still some of those, you know)… you won’t get much use out of your VoIP mobile phone. Since Wi-Fi reception can sometimes get fluttering, sometimes bad reception could be a problem – which is particularly aggravating when you’re having serious conversations over the phone. Even though actual calls are likely to be extremely cheap of even free, you’ll usually have to purchase a data plan to get access to mobile VoIP.
It’s a bright future for mobile VoIP
When it comes to business or home settings, VoIP technology has already become much popular. Switching your traditional fixed phone with VoIP technology will afford you incredible savings, and this is something I can personally attest to – since I’ve done so years ago. According to expert opinions, mobile VoIP will experience amazing growth until it eventually empowers both mobile phone markets and VoIP. Though I’m still “overaging” myself to death with a ridiculous T-Mobile plan, the concept of mobile business VoIP is sounding more appealing everyday.
