AT&T today announced it has taken the steps necessary so that Apple can enable VoIP applications on iPhone to run on AT&T’s wireless network. Previously, VoIP applications on iPhone were enabled for Wi-Fi connectivity. For some time, AT&T has offered a variety of other wireless devices that enable VoIP applications on 3G, 2G and Wi-Fi networks. AT&T this afternoon informed Apple Inc. and the FCC of its decision.
In late summer, AT&T said it was taking a fresh look at VoIP capabilities on iPhone for use on AT&T’s 3G network, consistent with its regular review of device features and capabilities to ensure attractive options for consumers.
“iPhone is an innovative device that dramatically changed the game in wireless when it was introduced just two years ago,” said Ralph de la Vega, president and CEO, AT&T Mobility & Consumer Markets, in the press release. “Today’s decision was made after evaluating our customers’ expectations and use of the device compared to dozens of others we offer.”
AT&T allows customers to download or launch on their wireless devices a multitude of compatible applications directly from any lawful Internet website. Additionally, because AT&T uses GSM technology, the most pervasive and open wireless technology platform in the world, we support customers using any GSM phone that works on AT&T’s frequencies.
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation’s fastest 3G network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. AT&T offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse and AT&T │DIRECTV brands. The company’s suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T’s Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations are known for their leadership in directory publishing and advertising sales. In 2009, AT&T again ranked No. 1 in the telecommunications industry on FORTUNE magazine’s list of the World’s Most Admired Companies. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com.
Source: AT&T Inc.
[Thanks to MacDailyNews Reader “Robert S.” for the heads up.]
OK, does this mean the anti-ATT whiners will take a break for a while? PLEASE!!
So – now I’m wondering if I really do need the $99 unlimited plan that I’m on now. Maybe I should go to the very lowest minutes and use Skype. (if they ever get my Skype number working that is)
I think I just answered my own question. You can’t receive Skype calls unless the App is open. Not a problem when I’m at my desk – but not doable when away.
Wow. Just wow. This is great!
What’s next?…….Sling. Let’s hope so.
Did the FCC actually accomplish something beneficial to the consumer, in a timely manner?? What country is this again?
AT&T;is heading off a Verizon iPhone at the pass.
There’s no way in Hell Verizon with its “locked down, end user unfriendly” business would ever allow VoIP and Little Bell knows it.
So when will Google Voice become available?
Amazing what a little inquiry from the FCC can do…
Regulation or coincidence ?
Isn’t this going to create more of a bottleneck in the pipeline?
Either they are slinging snowballs in hell or the price of “unlimited data” is about to start creeping up.
@Original Jake:
You call those who complain about substandard service “whiners”. I call people like you “sheep”. As far as I’m concerned, the volume of complaints (in all possible forums) should increase, not decrease. If unhappy iPhone users don’t continue to put pressure on AT&T;to improve the crappy service we’re paying good money for, who will?
@rollman:
Yes. Perhaps it will create enough of a bottleneck that Apple will finally realize how inadequate AT&T;’s network really is.
The cutting edge is always the bleeding edge
I have not had bad service with AT&T;, I am sorry for those in NY or SF but in FL it is good. I am glad to see that it is opening up. VoIP may be less taxing on their system. If your call is dropped whose fault is it, Google voice or AT&T;? I think the exclusive deal is coming to a end, look at Canada and the UK. This may be a way of keeping T-Mobile from offering to good of deals.
Seems that you will be using your at&t;minutes when using Skype over 3G, unlike Skype over WiFi… Doesn’t really matter if that’s the case…
And tethering?? When it expected to be available for the iPhone?
@Chaplin
Do you use your minutes when surfing the web or checking email? Then you don’t use minutes while using Skype or Vonage.
I think you might be right… When reading an article on NYT I think I confused GV with Skype etc… Hope you’re right and I’m wrong…
Now we need unlimited texts to be included with our unlimited data plans.
Seems that you will be using your at&t;minutes when using Skype over 3G, unlike Skype over WiFi. Doesn’t really matter if that’s the case… —Chaplin
If you’re calling overseas, which is what many Skype users are doing, it matters a great deal!!!
P.S.
TGABTG is correct. Skype works over the internet, which does not use minutes.
Skype Schmype! I want my iChat!!