AT&T Readies Cellular VoIP For iPhone

By Joseph Palenchar -- TWICE, 10/7/2009

Dallas - The chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) hailed AT&T for reversing its position and allowing the iPhone to use VoIP applications that run on AT&T's cellular network.

"Opening wireless services to greater consumer choice will drive investment and innovation in the mobile marketplace," claimed chairman Julius Genachowski.

Yesterday, AT&T said it took the necessary steps to enable VoIP applications on iPhones to run on the AT&T network. Previously, iPhones could run VoIP applications only by using its embedded Wi-Fi. On a variety of other devices, however, AT&T had already enabled VoIP applications over its 3G and 2G cellular network.

"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/CEO of AT&T mobility and consumer markets. "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 Web site, he noted.

During the spring CTIA convention, Skype unveiled a VoIP app for the iPhone and iPod Touch and announced plans for VoIP apps for BlackBerry phones. Those apps would join Skype VoIP apps for Windows Mobile smartphones, Android-OS smartphones and Java-equipped phones.