VoIP: not as killer as I thought


JajahWay back at Macworld, I opined that Voice-over-IP (VoIP) could be one of the killer apps on the iPhone, but after having played a bit with Jajah.com, a web-based VoIP client that does seem to work on the iPhone, I’ve started to wonder whether perhaps I wasn’t blinded by the iPhone’s shiny exterior. The more I think about it, the more VoIP seems—except for undoubtful circumstances—redundant on the iPhone.

But look at it that way: when you buy an iPhone, you’re pretty much obligated to signup for a two-year cell contract. You’re paying $60 a month for cell phone coverage anyway. Paying for VoIP calls on top of that is kind of inane. Now that most cell phone plans include nationwide long-distance calling for no additional charge, it’s not quite as useful as it is for replacing a landline.

Now for something like universal calling, where most carriers charge you an arm and a leg, VoIP




is a great solution. It usually costs a fraction of the amount that you’ll pay your cellphone provider, and it works pretty well. Likewise, occasions where you might be out of your calling area (in places where AT&T might charge you roaming fees), but have access to a Wi-Fi network, VoIP might plus save you some dough. Finally, whether you’re out of minutes on your plan for the month, VoIP might manufacture a fair alternative for some calls, given how much most companies charge for going by your allotment.

So, while VoIP may be a pretty cool notion when it comes to the iPhone, I think I’m going to have lower my assessment from “killer app” to “mildly bruising app.” whether, however, Apple ends up someday releasing an iPhone sans phone, thereupon I can imagine VoIP being a pretty integral part of that concept.

[hat tip for Jajah: Sean G.]

Original post by Dan Moren

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    • Posted on Jul 13th, 2007 by in iPhones Talk | No Comments


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