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Lets face it, despite all the cool things they can do these days, mobile phones have never had a reputation for their low price calls. Sure, long distance and roaming charges have dropped significantly but it will still cost you a pretty penny to call your friends, family or business associates overseas. If you are someone who needs to make a lot of international calls yet can’t seem to find a plan that offers decent rates, mobile VoIP might be a concept that piques your interest.
So What is VoIP?
Before tempting you with the mobile variation, perhaps you would like to know more about 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. Aside from cost savings, the technology offers numerous benefits to business and residential users, boasting exclusive features such as audio conferencing, fax to email and call blocking among others. Combine these benefits with mobile phones and you have an effective telecommunications solution that pretty much suits anyone.
What You Need
If you want to save money on phone calls with mobile VoIP, it is important to know that there are a few requirements. 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. You will also need a mobile phone provider equipped with VoIP software to enable calls to be made over the internet. Choosing the right provider is essential as the requirements vary from company to company. For example, a mobile VoIP provider leveraging Wi-Fi will call for you to be on a Wi-Fi network to place a call. Other providers all you to seek out the best connection and make a call be it a Wi-Fi or 3G network.
Disadvantages
The benefits of mobile VoIP are obvious but there are some drawbacks to the technology. The biggest disadvantage is associated with establishing a Wi-Fi connection. Though locations are growing, hotspots are still far and between, a factor that could render mobile VoIP useless when you are out of town or in a rural area. And even though the signals can be improved, the reception from a Wi-Fi network isn’t always up to par, which could be terribly aggravating if you are trying to carry on an important conversation. Lastly, mobile VoIP calls for you to purchase a data plan even though your calls might be incredibly cheap or even free.
Mobile VoIP is Here to Stay
VoIP has become extremely popular in both the corporate and home setting. Having ditched my traditional line years ago, I for one can attest to all the cost savings that can be enjoyed with a VoIP phone service. In regard to its mobile counterpart, experts are suggesting that the technology is set to experience tremendous growth and will eventually power both the VoIP and mobile phone markets. Though I’m still “overaging” myself to death with a ridiculous T-Mobile plan, the concept of mobile VoIP is sounding more appealing everyday.
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