Next Up: WiFi/Wireless VoIP

In a nutshell, wherever you have a fast enough Internet connection you can use VoIP.  Companies such as Skype already offer VoIP communications from your desktop PC, laptop, or PDA. Mobile workers are enjoying the fact that they can make and receive phone calls on the road.  Since their phone number doesn't change, users can be in a completely different country and the caller would never know it.

Now, as wireless networks pervade the home and business, be on the lookout for VOIP-enabled, wireless devices. VOIP users with wireless-enabled laptops and PDAs already enjoy the freedom and benefits of having wireless VoIP devices. For example, one can be sitting in Bryant Park (NYC), using the free wireless connection, making and receiving VOIP calls.

Naturally, manufacturers are looking to combine existing cellular technologies with WiFi VOIP. Why not just make WiFi VOIP phones? Read this article for a great explanation. Basically it illustrates how a WiFi-only, VoIP phone is a one-trick pony. Without a WiFi connection it is just a cordless phone away from its base. Last week, Skype Technologies and i-mate announced their plans to preload Skype software on i-mate devices already capable of using both cellular and WiFi technologies. While that kind of duality sounds great for businesses and end-users, I have a feeling that wireless companies here in the US will have some issues when it comes to carrying a phone which can essentially decrease cellular usage (therefore decreased billing). However, if the user demands it, I'm sure the accounting, finance and marketing people will find a way for users to pay a premium.

Via
Tom Keating - VoIP info blog
Digital Home Canada - Skype and i-mate
emarketer - report on Wireless VoIP (available to public until 2/17/05, grrr.)