CES 2009: 8X8 Demonstrates Packet8 MobileTalk

By Staff -- TWICE, January 9, 2009

LAS VEGAS — 8x8 is demonstrating its Packet8 MobileTalk mobile calling service, said to offer a simple, affordable and high-quality digital voice solution to overseas calling, during International CES in South Hall 4 at booth 36025.

Packet8 MobileTalk utilizes a downloadable software application that can currently reside on any Windows, Palm or Symbian based mobile phone to seamlessly connect international calls from the mobile phone to the Packet8 digital VoIP network. Routing these calls over the Packet8 network is said to enable cellphone users to reduce their international phone bills and maintain high international voice quality while still enjoying the convenience and flexibility of mobile calling.

Unlike calling card, callback and other reduced-rate international mobile calling services, which require the user to dial numerous key strokes in addition to their destination number or make their calls through software applications, Packet8 MobileTalk users can dial calls directly and natively from their mobile handset, contact list or speed dial directory with no additional keystrokes. Once the destination number is dialed or selected, the Packet8 MobileTalk software application identifies the international prefix being called and redirects the call to a local Packet8 network access number. With Packet8 MobileTalk, all calls are carried to the Packet8 network over the subscriber's existing cellular voice phone service and do not require access to a monthly data plan or Wi-Fi access point. Packet8 MobileTalk calls are routed over the Packet8 digital phone VoIP network.

Customers can sign up for a Packet8 MobileTalk account online and download the application to their mobile device from a PC or, if the customer's existing mobile service plan includes data service, via an over-the-air software download.

According to the company, customers do not have to subscribe to other Packet8 VoIP or videophone services in order to sign up for Packet8 Mobiletalk, though discounted service fees are offered to existing Packet8 VoIP or MobileTalk subscribers. There is a one-time $9.99 activation fee for the service and a monthly fee of $9.99 for non-Packet 8 subscribers. Existing Packet8 VoIP subscribers, including subscribers with one Packet8 MobileTalk account, pay a monthly service fee of $4.99. Packet8 MobileTalk overseas calls are billed at Packet8's international rates.