Many have hypothesized about the iPhone’s potential to function as a next-gen portable VoIP device, as the iPhone’s WiFi and technology could easily handle the task. Unfortunately, dreams of free worldwide calling via WiFi/IP are virtually dashed on the rocks of services fees and data plans that will not be optional for potential iPhone adopters.

Chris Hollands at the Internet Brands Developer Blog has highlighted the exciting potential the iPhone could have for VoIP usage:

“Picture unlimited free calls over WiFi/IP without even having to “think about it”, by simply picking a Person from your Address Book, and hitting “call” … The same way you’d make a Normal Phone Call. All this powered behind-the-scenes by an outstandingly executed convergence of enabling technologies and open-protocols.”

Chris points out the iPhone’s unique address book and technology could allow users to make calls to anyone, anywhere with a quick connectivity check; if there existed a connection to a WiFi network, the iPhone could, theoretically, seamlessly connect and call people worldwide.

Unfortunately, the potential this feature has is pushed from the forefront when you get your monthly iPhone bill; AT&T has already disclosed the iPhone will have an iPhone-specific contract, no doubt entailing data and phone capabilities that cannot be bypassed.

At $600 before monthly fees, 2 year contract, and data plan, its quite hard to be excited about the random free phone call when you’re in range of a WiFi connection. “I just spent hundreds and hundreds of dollars to make a few free VoIP phone calls when I’m within WiFi range! Yay!” It loses the effect.

If you’re willing to invest the countless dollars the iPhone will demand, you should certainly be prepared to use VoIP at any given chance, if only just to stick it to the man with one or two occasional free phone calls. However, don’t get your panties in a bunch over it; after all, receiving that monthly bill could only be a real downer to your VoIP sexy party.

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Entry was posted on Wednesday, June 20th, 2007 at 4:53 pm under Apple, iPhone, opinion.  Print This Post

Read more entries by Triston McIntyre.
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