UTStarcom F1000G Wi-Fi Mobile Handset

Using mobile voip enables one to save on the cost of making phone calls while on the move. The cost of calling from mobile phones is still very high for most countries in the world. More and more voip service providers are now offering mobile voip services that enable their subscribers to make voip calls using Wi-Fi enabled mobile phones. The F1000G wi-fi mobile phone is a nicely designed and highly functional mobile phone from UTStarcom. The F1000G can be thought of as an IP Phone combined with a wireless network card. It can be used to access VoIP service from any Wi-Fi hotspot that has access. This phone automatically searches for the presence of a Wi-fi network and log on to it, this allows one to roam from you hotspot to another without having to change the settings on the phone. Looking and operating just like a cell phone, F1000G provides a low-cost way to communicate when you are on the move with popular features such as three way calling, call waiting, call rejection/redial/mute, call transfer, call forwarding, Call hold/resume, repeat dial on busy, caller id blocking and reject anonymous call. Using F1000G is easy and intuitive, differing hardly at all from a GSM mobile phone, and including standard features such as an address book and call list manager. It has a high-performance rechargeable battery that provides talk time of up to 4 hours and standby time of up to 80 hours. Weighting just 111 grams and a dimension of 110mm x 45mm x 22mm fits nicely in your pocket like any mobile phone. F100G supports major VoIP/IP protocols such SIP, HTTP, RTP/RTCP, SDP, STUN and DHPC and also support G.711u, G.711a, G.729a, G.726 speech codecs.

Uplink - The Skype to SIP Adapter

Lots of voip applications are based on the SIP protocol. SIP protocol has now become an industry standard. Skypeon the other hand use a proprietary protocol and has been very successful in the voip business with millions of subscribers and have a kind of cult following in the voip market. So the need always arise when you want to call from your sip based voip service or softphone to a contact on skype and vice versa. Since SIP and Skype dont interoperate ( i hope they will one day) you need an adapter that acts like a gateway between the two protocols so that calls can be made from one to the other. One of such adapters is the Uplink from NCH Swift Sound. Uplink connects the SIP protocol based voip calls to the proprietary Skype network and it works in both direction. Uplink can be downloaded free from NCH website. Its very easy to configure and use, you will get going within minutes. After installing the uplink software just go to options to give the path to your skype executable, enter you SIP service settings and the dial options when Skype call sip and vice versa. If configured correctly it worked very fine and does not interface with the call quality.

Odeo Voice Mail from a Web Site

Odeo.com developed this cool application that can be used to get feedback from readers. Readers can now not only leave text comments but can also send their comments as voice mail. So lets give it a try and see how it works. Click the button below to send me a voice mail.

Talqer adds PC-to-Phone Calls to Google Talk

Vozin Communications, a new player in the VoIP field has developed an application that enables making PC-to-phone calls from Google Talk, nicknamed Talqer. Talqer can be used as a stand alone pc-to-phone voip application or can be integrated with Google Talk as a pc-to-phone call plugin. Before now Google Talk can be used only for PC-to-PC calls but with Talqer integrated you can now make high quality PC to normal phone calls at very low rates. Talqer is available free for download. Related post: Google enters the voip market with Google Talk

Choosing IP Telephony Infrastructure

Choosing the right IP telephony infrastructure for your enterprise is very important and it significantly affect the overall quality of service. The days of proprietary PBXs are rapidly disappearing. Voice over IP is one of the fastest growing technologies with shipments of IP lines expected to eclipse traditional PBXs this year. Along with assessing your network readiness for VoIP (appropriate available network bandwith as well as routers and switches capable of Quality of Service), it is important to delve into the specific features and aptions that a potential vendor offers. Important criteria to look for in your IP PBX vendor include Ease of Integration with Legace PBX Systems and Reliability. Legacy PBX's may be depreciated over 7 to 10 years as well as it is unlikely that there will be an immediate cutover in multiple sites. This necessitates that the IP PBX have an easy way to integrate with existing PBX, even if it is temporary. Look for ease of deployment features in the IP PBX that make extension-to-extension mapping as well as caller ID forwarding easy. Like legacy PBX systems, one of the most important criteria in selecting an architecture is reliability. When the CEO is unable to get dial tone, or the call is cut off, the opportunity cost of not investing in a reliable system are much greater than the up front equipment costs. Key areas to look for are Real-time operating systems for servers delivering dial-tone, Automatic failover of voice clients to another device on the network if the call control server fails and connectivity to the PSTN if the WAN link fails. In addition, look for a redundancy strategy in the call control server itself. This might either be through redundant hard drives, power supplies and fans, or through a second server and a sub-second failover mechanism.

Keeping Wireless VoIP Infrastructure Secure

With more and more people and businesses adopting VoIP, security issues are becoming more important. The risks even become greater when voip is implemented on a wireless LAN. Wireless LAN infrastructure is subject to additional vulnerabilities not seen in wired networks. Propagation of RF signals beyond the enterprise perimeter leads to the ability of an improperly secured wireless access point or wireless client to be compromised, exposing the corporate network to theft or malicious hacking. For this reason, the enterprise's security strategy is a foremost consideration in determination of the wireless LAN infrastructure and must encompass all wireless clients, including voice clients. Best in class practices for enterprise-class security include, Strong over-the-air encryption and authentication, Restricting network resource access with virtual LANs, Guest Access through a captive portal and Preventing rogue access points and other Wi-Fi vulnerabilities.

Lycos Phone Beta Launched

The internet search engine company Lycos has entered the voip market. They have launched Lycos Phone in partnetship with Idia-based Global7. Lycos Phone is a softphone that can be used to make both PC-to-PC and PC-to-phone calls. PC-to-PC calls are free and PC-to-phone calls are at low rates. When you sign up as a Gold member you get 100 free minutes of PC-to-phone calls and you also get a free US phone number as "Lycos In" number on which you can receive unlimited free incoming calls. The service is supported by advertisment, so if you sign up for Netflix or credit card promotional offers and see banner-ads you can make unlimited free calls to phones in the United States. The GUI also supports instant messaging and streaming media content. Additional features include Video calls, voicemails, online video streaming and fax to e-mail service. I got my 100 free minutes yesterday and call a friend in the US, the audio quality was quite good. I am now waiting to receive my free Lycos In number. Click here to download Lycos phone

Import MSN, Skype and Outlook contacts directly to Voipbuster, Voipcheap and Voipstunt

With the latest version of voipbuster, voipcheap and voipstunt its now possible to import your MSN, Skype and Outlook contacts directly. This feature is very easy to use, click Tools on the menubar and select Import contacts and follow the prompt. Maybe Finarea is moving gradually in the direction on interoperation but definitely too slow. I hope that in future it will be possible to make direct Pc-to-Pc calls from say voipbuster to a skype user. There are numerous voip softphones out there and i believe we will not be able to use them to their full potential if they don’t interoperate. Imagine a case in the regular telephone sector where a Vodafone subscriber cant call a T-Mobile subscriber for example, how will that be like. I look forward to a time when these voip service providers will be moving faster in the direction of complete interoperation.

TRENDnet's New Mobile Solution Combines Bluetooth and 802.11g

TRENDnet, a best-in-class networking manufacturer of wired and wireless networking solutions announced its latest mobile innovation, the TBW-103UB 802.11g WiFi and Bluetooth Combo USB Adapter. The device integrates WiFi and Bluetooth access into one USB 2.0 adapter to enable the seamless transfer of information between Bluetooth enabled devices, such as cell phones, and computers. By integrating the two wireless tools into one unit, a brigde between the Bluetooth-equipped cell phone and the PC has been created. While Bluetooth has become a common feature in newer cell phones, it is not always included as a standard feature in PC's. By connecting the TBW-103UB to a regular laptop USB port, mobile users can now sync contact files, share photos, listen to music or make VoIP calls via their Bluetoooth-equipped cell phone or headset. Simultaneously users can surf the internet via their WiFi connection. "This unit is the latest product in a line of solutions recently launched intendet to improve the productivity and lifestyle of laptop users, "stated Heath Gregory, Marketing Director for TRENDnet. "By combining these two standards into one solution we are helping users make the most of their mobile devices and enhance their ability to distribute their content and stay connected anywhere."

Omnivox AES gets Multi-User Interface

APEX Voice Communications, a leading supplier of multi-service platforms for enhanced services and real-time billing solutions to telecommunications carriers, service providers, developers, and enterprises worldwide, announced that it has added a Multi-User Interface to its OmniVox AES multi-service platform for enhanced services solutions. Key features include enhanced account administration, new object control functions and the greater use of permissions for various account actions. The new OmniView Operation, Administration, Management and Provisioning (OAM&P) module of OmniVox AES gives systems administrators the ability to create Domains, Groups and Users. For example, Domains are used to partition systems when services are being "sub-leased" to third-parties. Each Domain in return has its own domain administrator that can create User and Group accounts and assign them various permisions that can be applied to Users. Also, password storage and verification now uses 160-bit encryption for increased security. "We have had extremely positive feedback from our customers who have started to implement the new multi-user interface of OmniVox AES," said Elhum Vahdat, executive vice president of APEX Voice Communications. "The new multi-user interface, along with the added security features, continues to keep OmniVox AES at the forefront of multi-service platforms."

Vodavi and Converged Access Ink VoIP Reseller Deal

Vodavi and Converged Access announced that they partnered to provide traffic management and quality of service (QoS) systems for VoIP networks. The new partnership calls for Vodavi to resell Converged Access’ Converged Traffic Manager (CTM) and Converged Access Point (CAP) systems to Vodavi’s authorized dealers. Enterprise customers deploying the Converged Access and Vodavi’s XTS-IP and TeleniumIP communications system bundle can now employ traffic management, and other WAN optimization and application control techniques. The Converged Access systems enable network managers to set priority levels for voice and data applications so that voice traffic is protected with Quality of Service (QoS) over the private network. The Converged Traffic Manager enables tollquality VoIP, jitter-free IP video, and businessIP response times. The product integrates traffic monitoring, traffic management, compression and caching with advanced application layer visibility and control to assure WAN efficiency and application performance for converging IP voice, data and video applications.

Superdeal from voipbuster, Call Armenia, Bolivia, Costa Rica , Nigeria, South-Africa etc for just 1 cent per minute

This is the latest superdeal from Voipbuster, users can now call landlines in Armenia, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Indonesia, Lithuania, Macau, Nigeria and South-Africa for just 1 cpm. So if you call any of these destinations often then enjoy the good times!.

JAJAH Launches in US

Jajah will tomorrow 28-03-06 launch her revolutionary web activated telephony in the United States of America. Launched last month in Europe, it has gained a tremendous acceptance among users because of its easy of use. With Jajah web activated phone-to-phone calls you don’t need a broadband connection, no download and no headphone is required. Just enter your telephone number and the number of the person you want to talk to and jajah will connect you within seconds. Anybody can use it, it needs absolutely no configuration. Can be described simply as "VoIP Made Easy". I am not surprise that they are going fast because been able to enjoy the low rates of voip calls using your normal phone, with great audio quality is simply irresistible Related post: Jajah Web - Click to call

VSoft Phone from Mobif

VSoft phone is an easy to use internet telephone from Malaysia based MoBif. Its really easy to setup after download and you can get going in minutes. As usual PC-to-PC calls are free and calls to regular phones are at lower rates. The internation rates are in Malaysia ringgit and you have to convert to your prefered currency to see how that compares with any service you are currently using. I have tried it and the call quality is resonably good. Vsoft can be downloaded free at http://www.mobif.com.my/products_VSoft.htm

Treo 650 Smartphone - More than just talk!

This beautifully designed phone from Palm simplifies your life and make it a lot easier to stay connected. The Treo 650 Smartphone lets do more than just talk by combining all the features of a mobile phone with e-mail, an organizer, web access, digital camera and an MP3 player. It has a nicely positioned and finger -friendly keyboard and also bluetooth technology that lets you connect wirelessly to other bluetooth enabled devices. You can listen to your favourite music using the MP3 player and the digital camera let you campture video and takes photos which you can then easily send to friends and colleagues. Powered by the Intel PXA270 processor that gives impressive multimedia performance and long battery life. And with the right voip client software such barablu you can make free or low rate voip calls directly from this mobile phone.

D-Link DPH-540 - The Wi-Fi flip-style mobile phone for VoIP

It is not suprising seen more and more products developed for voip considering the immense popularity of internet telephony at present. The latest of such products is the DPH-540 from D-Link and its shipment is expected to start this summer. DPH-540 is a Wi-Fi enabled flip mobile phone developed specifically for internet telephony. It has a SIP-based VoIP software from TelTel preinstalled enabling users to make voip calls wherever there is a Wi-Fi hotspot.The DPH-540 includes a large colorful LCM to display call information such as the numbers you dial, address book entries and caller ID numbers. The DPH-540 also supports several advanced calling features, including last number redial, mute, hold and text messaging. It has 12 MB RAM and 16 MB flash memory, 40-tones polyphony and USB interface for recharging. It runs on a Li-Ion 900 mAh battery, has dimensions of 113x48.7x25 mm and weights 115g.

PayPal to go Mobile

PayPay, the popular online payment system will soon offer its subscribers the possibility to may make and receive payments from their cell phones and other mobile devices. To use the system subscribers will need to register their phones online and select a code to protect against unauthorized users. Person-to-person payments, buying of items and making donations can then be done directly from cell phones using PayPal Mobile. The system is allready being tested and its expected to be lauched in United States, Canada and the United Kingdom soon. This new service from Paypal will make it possible for us to pay for our voip service anywhere we are without the need to go online and this could be very useful if you subscribe to a service that let you make voip calls directly from your cell phone or other mobile devices.

Configuring Voipdiscount on X-lite

This post is to give information about how to configure Voipdiscount on X-Lite softphone. In X-Lite open ‘menu’ and select ’system settings’ then ‘sip proxy`, from the list of proxies deplayed select the an available proxy. You should then enter the settings below: Enabled YES Display Name: (Voipdiscount user name) Username: (Voipdiscount user name) Authorization User: (Voipdiscount user name) Password :(Voipdiscount password) Domain/Realm: sip1.voipdiscount.com SIP Proxy: connectionserver.voipdiscount.com Out Bound Proxy :sip1.voipdiscount.com Leave all other settings as default. This configuration is working for me.

Recording calls with voipbuster, voipcheap... etc

A reader sent me an e-mail requesting to know how he can record calls with his voipbuster and voipcheap user clients, so after replying his e-mail i decieded to make a post about it here also for the benefit of other readers. The best way to record calls made using voipbuster, voipcheap, voipstunt, internetcalls etc is to use Express Talk softphone. Just configure any of those applications you are using on Express Talk and then use the Record call feature on express talk to record the call. You can also select automatic record call option on express talk so that your calls are recorded automaticall whenever you call. This can also be used with any SIP based voip service.

Apple iPhone coming!

Most analysts believe that an Apple iPhone is on the way. Some says it will be an iPod with an iPhone while others think it will be seperate from iPod. Of recent some images of how the iPhone will look like has started appearing on the internet. MobileMag believes it will look something like this, while zdnet believes it will look like this. But i kind of think it will not look like any of the mockups that are appearing on the internet, this might just be an attempt by apple to hype things up before surprising us with their design. One thing is sure though, an Apple iPhone is on the way and it might come sooner than later.

AVACON for Skype

AVACON for Skype is a skype plug-in that let you turn a skype audio conferencing into a video conferencing. It works by changing the skype avatar into a live video feeds from your webcam so the your contacts can keep a eye on you while you chat or talk to them. AVACON for Skype is developed by San Diego based INVENTEERING Inc. and it’s a clever Skype plug-in that streams video from your webcam directly to your profile. It is a very easy to use plug-in and it comes with a 15 days free trial. So if you want to lively up your skype conversations check out avacon at http://www.inventeering.com/.

Free Axon Virtual IP PBX Software

Axon Virtual PBX Software developed by the NCH Swift Sound is designed for the management of calls in a business environment or Call center. It enables the implementation of a scalable IP based PBX. It uses voip technology to connect phone lines and extensions working as a fully featured telephone switch. It offers all the features of a traditional PBX such as internal and external calls and also more advanced call queuing capability for call center application. It can be use with other innovative software products from NCH Swift Sound like IMS On-Hold messages system, VRS voice call recording software, IVM Call attendant, voice mail and IVR Software and express talk internet Phone. Its designed to be very easy to install and use. You can get going with the software within minutes and it can be downloaded for free at www.nch.com.au

Voipdiscount debuts with 52 free Countries, Call forwarding and Lower Rates

A new internet phone debuts yesterday with 52 free countries and Call forwarding capability. This is also from Finarea, the company behind voipbuster, voipcheap, voipstunt, internetcalls etc. The GUI design is very similar to the others before it but the rates are lower for some destinations. Now you can call 52 countries for free as against 45 and 39 countries in the case of internet calls and voipstunt respectively. The latest addition to the list of free countries are Brazil and Czech Republic. Like others before it Voipdiscount has call forwarding, you can forward your voip-in and P2P calls to any phone number of your choice, the forwarded calls will be charged at the voipdiscount standard rates which mean free if the number is in one of the free countries. I have tested it and the audio quality is very good much like all other voip clients and voip systems from Finarea. Voipdiscount can be downloaded for free at www.voipdiscount.com.

Internetcalls add more free destinations

Users of internetcalls can now call landlines in Andorra, Bulgaria, China, Colombia, Croatia, Georgia, Latvia, Mongolia and Turkey for free.

Patton's SmartLink M-ATA is the worlds Smallest Phone Adapters

Patton Electronics has started shipping what has been aclaimed the world's smallest phone adapter, the smartlink M-ATA.The SmartLink™ M-ATA™ enables the connection of a regular telephone device to voip service through a broadband internet access making it possible for subscribers to use their regular phone for voip calls. The small size is to reduce the shipping cost for the providers and also makes it easy to move it from one place to another by end users. Voip users can take the adapter with them when they travel and be able to use it away from home. The SmartLink™ M-ATA™ provides a single RJ-11/12 FXS port that connects to an analog phone, and one RJ-45 10/100Base-TX full-duplex/auto-sensing Ethernet port that connects to a broadband xDSL or cable modem. The M-ATA supports SIP or MGCP call signaling, G.711, G.726, G.723, and G.729ab CODECS, G.711 transparent FAX and T.38 FAX relay. IP services include NAPT, DHCP client, PPoE, programmable static routs, ICMP redirect, and VLAN 802.p/q support. Management services include web-browser configuration, multilevel security access, TFTP and HTTP configuration and software loading, SNMPv2 agent, and syslog support. More information are available at M-ATA product page on Patton’s web site.

Free Asterisk Classes

Chis at AsteriskBlog is planning free Asterisk beginner classes. The classes will be held at the local library in Anderon County, South Carolina. So if you are interested in learning one or two things about Asterisk you can contact Chris at Chris@Asteriskblog.com for more information.

VoIP Security - Get involved !

It wont be an overstatement if one says the popularity of voip technology is soaring. More and more people and companies and joining the voip train everyday. With the enormous cost sayings and new functionalities provided by this amazing technology one is not surprise why this is the case. But this also bring lots of new security issues to the fore, security issues like eavesdropping, call pattern tracking, conversation reconstruction etc have to be taken into consideration during voip deployment. This is why i was very happy when i came across VoIP Security Alliance (VOIPSA). VOIPSA is a non profit organization which aims to fill the void of voip security related resources through a unique collaboration of VoIP and information security vendors, providers and thought leaders. Membership of VOIPSA is open to both individuals and organisations. They have two working groups namely Treat Taxonomy and Security Requirements. The Treat Taxonomy working group is responsible for defining and identifying the potential VoIP deployment security threats, while the Security requirement working group is concerned with defining the security requirements across the wide spectrum of a VoIP ecosystem. I have contacted the Treaty Taxonomy working group leader about joining the group and i hope to start contributing my own quota to the efforts of VOIPSA soon. So if you want to be one of the people helping to make our communications secure go to VOIPSA Website and join a working group of your choice or tell them about your organization and they will let you know how you can get involved.

Yahoo Messenger with Voice now available in the U.S

Yahoo on wednesday lauch yahoo messenger with voice in the U.S. This service has been available for some months for international users. Services such as Phone-In and Phone-Out are also available. Unlike Skype voicemail services are free and there are a host of other enhancements to the yahoo voice service. This is establishing Yahoo messenger as a complete communication client, with IM, Chat, PC-to-PC calling, PC-to-phone calling, radio etc. My first experience with yahoo messenger with voice was not so good and i hope with this lauch most of the issues has been addressed. More Yahoo Links : ============== Yahoo! Personals with 7 Day FREE Trial offer Get quotes from Yahoo! Autos Yahoo!Music Unlimited Free Trial Yahoo! Top Games

Configuring Voipstunt for Express Talk

To configure Voipstunt on Express Talk softphone follow the steps below: 1. From the menu bar click VIEW and select SETTINGS 2. Select the "Line Tab" in settings 3. Select on which line you want to configure voipstunt, there are lines 1 to 4 4. Enter the following cofiguration settings:

• Display Name: Your Name
• Sip Account Number(or user): your voipstunt user-id
• Server(sip Proxy or Virtual PBX): connectionserver.voipstunt.com
• Password: Your voipstunt password.

5. Click on Advanced Line Settings, select use a different outbound server and enter
sip.voipstunt.com as the outbound server 6. Click OK These settings worked very fine for me. Feel free to comment or make suggestions regarding these settings. Related post : Express Talk - Free softphone with a difference

Configuring Voipcheap for Express Talk

To configure Voipcheap on Express Talk softphone follow the steps below: 1. From the menu bar click VIEW and select SETTINGS 2. Select the "Line Tab" in settings 3. Select on which line you want to configure voipcheap, there are lines 1 to 4 4. Enter the following cofiguration settings:

• Display Name: Your Name
• Sip Account Number(or user): your voipcheap user-id
• Server(sip Proxy or Virtual PBX): connectionserver.voipcheap.co.uk
• Password: Your voipcheap password.

5. Click on Advanced Line Settings, select use a different outbound server and enter
sip.voipcheap.co.uk as the outbound server 6. Click OK These settings worked very fine for me. Feel free to comment or make suggestions regarding these settings. Related post : Express Talk - Free softphone with a difference

Configuring Voipbuster for Express Talk

To configure Voipbuster on Express Talk softphone follow the steps below: 1. From the menu bar click VIEW and select SETTINGS 2. Select the "Line Tab" in settings 3. Select on which line you want to configure voipbuster, there are lines 1 to 4 4. Enter the following cofiguration settings:

• Display Name: Your Name
• Sip Account Number(or user): your voipbuster user-id
• Server(sip Proxy or Virtual PBX): sip1.voipbuster.com
• Password: Your voipbuster password.

5. Click OK These settings worked very fine for me. Feel free to comment or make suggestions regarding these settings. Related post : Express Talk - Free softphone with a difference

Express Talk - Free softphone with a difference

I discovered Express Talk while searching for skype to sip gateways and i must say its a wonderful softphone. Express Talk was developed by NCH Swift Sound, a leading audio technology developer. Express Talk let you call other users pc-to-pc free and you can configure up to four gateway services on it for PC-to-phone calls. It has call holding, call transfer, call recording and do not disturb features. It uses the SIP protocol and is compatible with most major VoIP SIP service providers.Its like having a the features of advanced telephone system in a softphone. You can a hold a call on one line while you make another call using another gateway service on the other line. Its links directly to other nice programms for call recording and On-Hold music. Most of all its very easy to install, configure and use. All the features of Express are summarized below:

1. Lets you make internet phone calls free direct PC to PC, or PC to phone via a VoIP SIP gateway provider. More information on VoIP here
2. Supports up to 4 lines on the one phone with the ability to put calls on hold.
3. Works with a headset or in speakerphone mode with just a standard microphone and set of speakers.
4. Includes data compression (GSM, uLaw, ALaw and PCM), echo cancellation, noise reduction comfort noise and more.
5. Uses the standard SIP protocol so it can link to a broad range of telephone gateways, SIP system or other internet phone software.
6. Also works with the VoIP Virtual PBx - just by installing that software you can create a LAN based PBx for offices or call centers.
7. Can be configured to work behind NATs and Firewalls.
8. Supports caller ID display and logging.
9. Includes a phone book with quick dial.
10. Supports call transfer.
11. Lets you record your phone calls to wav or used in conjunction with the VRS Call Recording Software, will save to MP3, wav and more.
12. Plays on-hold music to callers on hold. Can also link to the IMS On-Hold Messages Player Software to create professional mixes of music and messages on the fly.

I have configured all major voip clients that i use on express talk and they worked perfectly. In future posts i will give the express talk configuration settings for voipbuster, voipstunt, voipcheap and others. Express Talk can be downloaded for free.

RNKVoIP to launch VoIP2Go

PR Newswire has reported that RNKVoIP will be launching VoIP2Go on March 31, 2006. This service is an equipment free voip service. Users dont need any equipment such as headset, ip phone, phone adapters, gateway etc to make voip calls. In fact you dont even need an internet connection, all you need is just a regular landline or mobile phone on which you can call from. Subscribers will only need to make a phone call from any traditional telephony system to RNKVoIP VoIP network and be connected to any phone around the globe. With VoIP2Go no softphone download, equipment configuration and computer knowledge is required. This is another of recent voip service providers move to make voip service available to everybody and everywhere, a move i considered very positive. The entire news item can be read at PRNewswire.

mobiVoIP - VoIP on the move

I have been part of the Beta testing of mobiVoIP for some time now and it has really worked fine. mobiVoIP developed by Madison, Wisconsin based MantraGroup™ Inc enables users to make VoIP calls from mobile devices such as PDA's or Smartphones. It worked very well with bluetooth and WiFi connection but i couldnt get it to work well with low bandwith connections like GPRS and IrDA. With broadband wireless internet connection the audio quality was very good. Calls can be made to other mobiVoIP users and to any regular phone. More information can be obtained at http://www.mobivoip.net.

Globe 7 – Communication and Entertainment combined.

This new voip softphone launched recently is simply cool. Its an all in one application that combines total communication based on voip telephony with entertainment (music player and IPTV). No wonder they all have more than 1 million downloads already. It seems globe 7 is here to undo the almighty skype and take voip telephony to the next level. The features of Globe 7 are: •Free PC-to-PC calling •PC-to-Phone at very low rates. •Unlimited free incoming calls •‘follow-me-service’ (Call forwarding) •Voicemail ( coming soon) •Instant messaging •Status with presence •Fax-to-Email (coming soon) •PC-to-PC video calling •Watch free video services from e-Tainment •MP3 Player I will be doing an extensive testing of Globe 7 in the next couple of days to ascertain its quality of service. If you have used Globe 7 feel free to leave a comment here. Globe 7 can be downloaded for free at www.globe7.com.

Peneo SMS Callback Service

This service is a case of voip on the move. Once you subscribe to this service from Peneo you can make voip calls from any regular or mobile phone anywhere and anytime. All you have to do is to send an SMS to their network from your mobile phone, the number to send the SMS to is +447796798696. Basically you send a message containing your username and password followed by the 2 numbers you want to be dialed - usually your own number and the number of the person you want to talk to. In view seconds your phone will ring and you will be connected to the person you want to call. Once again the two calls are billed but the rates are still quite reasonable and the audio quality really good. Read more at www.peneo.com.

Peneo Web Callback Service

This service from Peneo is very similar to JajahWeb. It enable users to make voip calls using there normal telephone. After signing up for this service, you just need to login with your username and password. Enter your number as ‘source phone’,enter the number you want to call as ‘destination phone’and Click ‘connect’. In few seconds the two phone lines will be connected. Both parties must hang up to terminate the call, this is important because unlike jajahweb you will be billed for both calls i.e the cost of calling your phone and that of calling your contact. Despite this downside the rates are still much lower than using regular phones and the audio quality is very good.

Siemens C 450 IP enables Internet telephony without a PC

The Siemens C450 IP is the latest from Gigaset family of phones developed by Siemens. Its a fixed-line telephone that also allow users to make internet telephony without the need for a PC. All that has to be done is to connect the base terminal to a DSL modem. All configuration can be done directly from the handset colour display. This phone was launched at Cebit and will become available at retail outlets soon for about 100 euros.

FreeCalls365 - Free PC-to-Phone in Canada and U.S

FreeCalls365.com has launched a new VoIP service that provides free PC-to-phone calls in Canada and the United States. The service is supported by advertisement supplied by Adcalls. The dialer GUI will constantly display ads based on the user's area code. You can make unlimited free calls to any regular or mobile phones in the United States and Canada. The service can also only be used from within those two countries. If you are outside these two countries your account will be declared invalid and you wont be able to use the service. The company claim that freecalls365 provide superior sound quality and very easy to use dialer. Time will tell if advertisement can totaly pay for the cost of making calls to regular phones. I am unable to test the service since i live outside the U.S and Canada, so if anybody reading this has tested this service please leave a comment here and let us know how it is.

Packet8 Enhances Virtual Office for Small Businesses

8x8 Inc., a VoIP and videophone service provider, announced the release of a set of new call management features for its Packet8 Virtual Office, the company's VoIP-hosted PBX service for small businesses. Virtual Office is a VoIP-hosted virtual phone system comprised of auto attendants, conference bridges, extension-to-extension dialing, business class voicemail, and ring groups, in addition to other business-class PBX features found on legacy PBX systems. The newly released Virtual Office feature enhancements include extension Manager, One number access, caller ID blocking on/off (*67/*68), Full time caller ID blocking, call return (*69), Call waiting disable (*70), full time call waiting disable, voicemail call return, and internet outage handling. "Our suite of new features continues to expand while reducing administrator bottlenecks and costs typically associated with traditional business communication systems," said 8x8 director of marketing dave immethun. The virtual office system consists of a broadband phone adapter and hands-free business-class telephone priced at $99.95. Monthly packet8 virtual office costs range from $9.95 - $39.95 per extension, including a host of advanced PBX functions and business features. A minimum of three unlimited virtual office extensions is required for the system to funciton.

Packet8 Rolls out New Features and BPG510 Phone Adapter

VoIP and videophone service provider 8x8 Inc. unveiled new calling features for its Packet8 voice and video residential phone service and the Packet8 BPG510, a new terminal adapter with an integrated router. The new features include voicemail to e-mail notification, find me, follow me, simultaneous ringing on multiple phone numbers, 7-digit local dialing, network unavailable forwarding and call waiting disable. 8x8 also announced the release of the Packet8 BPG510, a new broadband phone adapter that eliminates the need for a separate router in a subscriber's home network. The BPG510 is equipped with two ethernet ports (LAN and WAN) and one RJ-11 phone port for connecting a standard analog telephone. The built-in router prioritizes voice packets over data and manages available bandwith. The LAN Ethernet port can be used to connect a PC or other networked device without adding any additional equipment. For more info visit www.packet8.com.

Auvi WIP20 Adapter Transforms Analog Phones into VoIP Receivers

Consumers who want to use their existing traditional or cordless telephone to receive calls using their VoIP service now have a new option - the WIP20 adapter, made by Auvi Technologies. The WIP20 connects to the consumer's VoIP service using the audio jacks on any Windows XP desktop computer. An included setup wizard guides users through the installation process. The WIP20 is 4 inches by 2 inches in size, and comes in two versions: WIP20S for Skype subscribers, and WIP20K for SIPTalk subscribers. It works with both broadband and dial-up internet connections. "The WIP20 enables users to make any telephone VoIP-enabled with as little hardware inverstment as possible," said Auvi CEO Santosh Patel, in a press release. Auvi's adapter comes packed with two 3.5mm-to-3.5mm line-in cords, an AC adapter, software CD, and quick-start guide. For more further information visit www.auviworld.com

Fusion to Launch new SIP-based Skype-like Service

Fusion telecommunications international has acquired a new technology that will enable it to lauch a SIP-based peer-to-peer skype-like internet calling service.“This technology will give Fusion the opportunity to expand its existing suite of paid service offerings and participate in the growing peer-to-peer telephony market through its efonica brand, including the free call segment now dominated by Skype," said Matthew Rosen, president and COO at Fusion. They claim that the new technology will enable fusion to interoperate with new technologies as they emerge and more importantly their approach is more secure and does not require the consumption of significant internet bandwidth which can be attributed to other peer-to-peer services.

China may Grant first VoIP License in June

The China Business news has Reported that China may grant first VoIP license in june of this year citing an unidentified source. The source said MII may grant the license to a firm under the direct management of the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission, without identifying the firm. 'Phase one of the development of the technological platform for VOIP will be completed by March 20 and MII is expected to release VOIP regulations in May,' the source said. This is good news for the chinese consumers. In the past there has been reports that china telecom had shut down some low-cost voip calling service providers.

Use calling cards from any country anywhere with Voipbuster, Voipcheap, voipstunt , internetcalls and sparvoip

Do you know that you can futher save money on your calls if you can use a UK calling card to call Angola while you are in Chile for example. This is an exciting senario created by the availability of free destinations using the voip applications mentioned in the tittle of this post. This is actually the result of a simple experiment conducted by a friend of my that i introduced to these voip applications sometimes ago. This is a good tip for the users of these applications that could help them save more on their calls. I will just explain how this work using an example senario, Assuming you are in Chile and you want to call Angola using voipstunt it will cost you 24 cents per min, this is a lot lower than what it will cost you if you call directly using normal telephone in Chile but you can still save further. IDT Calling cards allows you to call Angola from UK for 12.5 ct and this card can be bought online. All you have to do to use the card is to dial there toll free access number from voipstunt, since UK is a free destination the call will be free. When asked your PIN enter it and then the number you want to call in Angola, Bingo! you have just save 50%. This works for a lot of other scenerios you just have to figure out which destination you want to call and which cards are out there that offer rates cheaper than your voip application. Calling card companies route there calls over the internet so they over very competitive rates too and for some destinations could be cheaper than what voip service providers offer.

Skype unveils Skype for Business

Skype has announced the lauching of skype for business. This is a communication solution designed for small business with fewer that 10 employees to easily manage communications, improve productivity and reduce cost. This is much of an extension of skype groups in which group administrators can buy bulk credits and simultaneously distribute the credits to members of the group. The new features of skype for business includes a skype for business website, skype for business control panel and integration with microsoft outlook toolbar. The new resource is available now at skype.biz

GN Netcom and Westcon Group Sign Distribution Agreement

Westcon Group, Inc. has signed an agreement to distribute GN Netcom corded and wireless headsets throughout Europe. GN Netcom is the world's largest manufacturer of headsets and provides a variety of solutions for VoIP-enabled SMB and enterprise networks. By including the award-winning line of GN Netcom headsets into an overall value proposition, resellers gain the ability to add a relatively simple incremental revenue opportunityx to a convergence solution. GN Netcom headsets are fully compatible with telephone handsets from Westcon's telephony systems vendor partners, including 3Com, Avaya, Nortel, Mitel, and Siemens. In addition to the added convenience and prodictivity benefits headsets provide, recent research by national government agencies across Europe suggest that jobs necessitating high telephone usage remain areas of health concern in an increasingly telephony-based, service-oriented workforce. Guy Koster, Director of Product Management, Westcon Europe, commentted: "The addition of GN Netcom to the WEstcon convergence portfolio represents an exciting opportunity for our reseller and solution provider partners. With headset penetration in call center environments generally accepted to be at saturation point, now is a great time to be looking at the general office environment as a new market opportunity for these products." "By partnering with Westcon, we can play an important addition to its VoicePoint program, which has proven to be a very significant resource to reseller partnets," added Hans Henrik Lund, President, GN Netcom. "Westcon clearly recognizes the significance of adding headsets to an overall VoIP solution and we are thrilled to have our products sold alongside Westcon's core vendor offerings.". www.gnnetcom.com and www.westcongroup.com

Cohere Picks BroadSoft to Offer VoIP Services

VoIP application software provider BroadSoft Inc. was tapped by IP and Internet systems provider Cohere Communications of New York City to launch Broad Exchange Services (BxS), a VoIP service for the multi-site small and medium enterprise market. Cohere chose the Broadworks VoIP application to launch the new VoIp offering, cohere also expanded its BxS service offerings beyoun the northeastern region of the United States to deliver services nationwide. "The VoIP services cohere delivers meet the needs of small and medium enterprises, especially those with multiple office locations," sakd Steven Francesco, CES, cohere communications. "The Broadsoft VoIP application software lets us deliver the services our SME customers want, while allowing us to expand our portfolio to also offer wholesale services. When it was time to bring a platform in-house, the Broadworks platform was the obvious choice for all our VoIP service offerings," Cohere communications and partner, Globalive, plan to migrate all VoIP customers to the BroadWorks platform from a previously deployed platform. BroadSoft's IMS-compliant BroadWorks VoIP application platform provides a set of applications, including hosted PBX, IP Centrex, mobile PBX, business trunding and residential broadband services integrated into a single VoIP application platform. "Our customers' success is the number one priority for us," said Broadsoft's chief executive office Micheal Tessler, "Cohere communications has grown carefully into a standalone VoIP service provider, increasing both the depth and breadth of services they provide to SME and wholesale customers across the United States. Their focus on support and security, coupled with the processes they've put into place, allows Cohere communications to deliver the highest quality VoIP services to their customer base."

Peneo, A New Player on the VoIP Market

Launched in October 2005, Peneo Telecommunications enables anyone with high-speed internet access to sign up for voice over internet protocol (VoIP) services. Users can sign up easily and they can enjoy the PC-to-PC telephony for free. Peneo offers challenging low rates when it comes to calling out to PSTN lines worldwide. Peneo uses the widely spread SIP technology. All SIP-compatible standalone phone devices are supported, which means users can initiate or receive VoIP phone calls without a PC. While free calls between users is common in the VoIP industry, what makes Peneo standing out is its wide range of services. Any Peneo user can connect two telephone lines anywhere in the world using an online interface and paying only Peneo's low rates. Web callback can be used from any PC and does not require any software to be downloaded or installed. You simply login, enter the two phone numbers that you want to be connected, and click connect. Peneo's server will call you back on the first number, then after a short delay, connect the second number allowing you to talk. There is also an option called SMS callback. Simply send an SMS to Peneo including your account loging and the two phone numbers you wish to connect, and that's it. Both phones are ringing, and once again, even if you're on the other side of the world, you pay Peneo's low rates. All services are particularly useful if travelling or if you want to make low cost calls from a country where pc2phone services are blocked. Once you have a Peneo account, you automatically have access to our callback services using the same username and password. More information from www.peneo.com

New VoWiFi Communications from Ascom

Thanks to a new VoWiFi communications system launched by Ascom Wireless Solutions, staff at hospitals and other healthcare establishments will be able to roam around free of wires and cables associated with leagacy telephone equipment that usually strap them of their desk stations. The new system is based on the IEEE 802.11(b/g) standard and uses VoIP technology and wireless VoIP handsets. The system also offers and integrated personal alarm function, alert messaging, paging, and voice telephony, with access to a range of other communication services. It integrates with existing voice and data networks in the medical facilities and can interconnect with public networks. "VoIP and WiFi have become standardized and mature technologies, enabling us to offer solutions that meet the healthcare sector's requirements for reliability, robustness, security and flexibility," said Ascom's Chief Technology Officer, Stefan Bramberg.

AT&T Launches IPTV Service in Texas

AT&T's new TV sevice, which is delivered via IP technology, boasts 200 channels, including HBO, MTV, ESPN; Discovery Channel and A&E, along with all three major broadcast networks. It also offers several hours of on-demand programming. According to company officials. One difference is that it offers fast channel changes, so that when viewers flip through channels, there is no lag. This is a common problem with many digital cable TV systems. The sevice also offers picture-in-picture channel surfing, so that viewers can continue watching their current show while getting a glimpse of what is available on other channels. One of the primary differences between AT&T's offering and Verizon's FiOS TV - which was announced the same day - is that FiOS TV is delivered via fiber-to-the-home, whereas AT&T is extending fiber only to nodes which are close to homes (also known as "fiber-to-the-curb"). Because it has limited bandwith to devote to its video service, AT&T is delivering it using IP technology. Even though AT&T's service costs much less to deploy, its network is riskier from a technology perspective because it uses new and evolbing technology. Many experts agree that eventually all TV networks will use IP to provide more interactive content, which means all eyes will be on AT&T as it expands its service later this year.

SMB 1500 from Whaleback Systems

Whaleback Systems has released the SMB1500, a groundbreaking business solution that operates over a broadband connection instead of a traditional phone line to maximize cost savings and deliver cutting-edge capabilities. Whaleback Systems reduces companies' telecommunications expenses and eliminates fluctuating monthly costs with an affordable, all-inclusive, flat rate per station service package. The package includes unlimited calling throughout North America, an IP multi-line executive handset, voice mail, video calling, desktop messaging, remote access, caller ID, speed dial, call forwarding, direct inward dialing, local number portability, auto-attendant, first-class sound quality, e-911 coverage and U.S.-based technical support. In addition, Whaleback Systems provides a free server to support the network and free upgrades to prevent obsolescence. "Whaleback Systems developed a service package to ensure our cutting-edge technology is immediately affordable for businesses of all sizes," shared Ken Stress, Whaleback Systems' vice president of business development. "We integrated advanced technologies to engineer a system with easy to use fuatures that improve staff productivity and streamline internal and external communications," said Wray West, Whaleback System's co-founder and vice president of engineering.

Voipcheap, Voipstunt, Voipbuster, SparVoIP and Netappel now with 120 days Credit Expiration

There is now a 120 days credit expiration limit for users of the above mentioned applications. This means the 10 euros credit you bought in other to have unlimited free calls must be used up within 120 days after purchase. This is another way of making you pay for the free calls but the good news is that even for the non free destinations and mobiles this voip applications still have the lowest rates.

Call Romania and Ukraine for just 1 cent per min

If you make calls to this two countries then voipstunt is your best bet. Romania and Ukraine has been included in the superdeal destinations in voipstunt rates so users of the voipstunt can now call landlines in the two countries for just 1 cent per min. This is the best deal for these two countries from any provider.

Skype Speakerphone from USRobotics

This beautiful USB Internet Speakerphone (USR9610) from USRobotics makes free Skype calls hands free. With powerful echo cancellation technology, convenient volume and mute buttons, and full-duplex operation, the USR9610 works just like a traditional speakerphone, only without the costs of a long distance call. The speakerphone is light, and easy to install and use with Skype. The speakerphone’s high-quality speaker allows for clear, easy to understand calls from around the world. In addition, the unit’s small size and resilient design allows users to drop it into their laptop bag without fear of damage. It also can be used with other applications like MSN, Yahoo-voice and Google talk but with limited functionality.

Improve your mobile calling experience with "Callwave for your Cell Phone 2.0"

Callwave is using VoIP technology to enhance your mobile calling experience. Their new product Callwave for your Cell Phone 2.0 is a very interesting one. As soon as you downlaod and install this software on your mobile phone you can do the following: call Screening, call transfer, voicemail to e-mail and answer cell calls online. Call screening let you screen calls and decide whether you want to answer them or not, you will hear the caller leave message in real time and you can simply press 1 if you want to take the call. If for some reasons you prefer to answer your cell phone call on your landline number you can use the call transfer function to do this. All you have to do to transfer a call is to simply press 2 on your cell phone whenever it rings, this will transfer the call to a landline number you entered during registration. Voicemail to e-mail feature let your voicemail messages be e-mail to you directly and you can save them as long as you want. The last but not the least is the fact you can take your cell phone calls online if you choose to whethe your phone is on or off. All this your get for FREE at www.callwave.com.

Call forwarding also available in SparVoip

Like all other voip clients from Finarea, sparvoip now has call forwarding feature. Calls can be forwarded to any phone number in the world at the standard rates. Also calls can be forwarded to other voip-in numbers and skype-in numbers as is the case with voipbuster, voipcheap adn voipstunt.

Timbuktu Pro integrates Skype.

The latest version of Timbuktu Pro for Windows and Macintosh released by Netopia yesterday integrates skype. Timbuktu Pro is a remote control and collaboration software that enables users to remotely view and interact with individual desktops through the internet. Timbuktu Pro 8.6 for windows and Mac provide an integration with Skype and thereby enables users to now talk to one another while collaborating using Timbuktu Pro. Skype calls can now be launched from inside Timbuktu Pro. This has further reiterate the believe by many people that skype is not only a voip application but a Pipe.