Apple Confirms iPhone, iPad 3G VoIP

By Joseph Palenchar -- TWICE, 1/29/2010

Greenwich, Conn. - VoIP calling over 3G cellular came to the iPhone with the launch of an Apple-authorized app from iCall.

The app follows a revision made by Apple its licensing agreements with applications developers. "We revised our program license agreement in conjunction with our updated software development kit (SDK) for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad Apps," an Apple spokesperson told TWICE. "Included in this update is the ability for developers to create VOIP apps that utilize cellular networks."

The move was lauded by FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski. "I commend Apple's decision to open its platform to 3G calling, an action that will create new opportunities for entrepreneurs and provide more choices for consumers," Genachowski said.

Previously, iCall's VoIP app for the iPhone, and other VoIP apps for the iPhone, operated over Wi-Fi, but the first steps toward allowing VoIP calling via iPhones over a 3G data channel came last October. That's when AT&T said it took the necessary steps to make it possible for VoIP apps on iPhones to run on the AT&T network. AT&T had already enabled other handsets to use VoIP applications over its 3G and 2G cellular network.

Apple's license revision change was the final step to make 3G VoIP over an iPhone.

Greenwich, Conn.-based iCall claimed to be "the first and only VoIP application" thatuses 3G on the iPhone. "Until today [Jan. 27], restrictions imposed on developers prohibited VoIP functionality on any 3G network," iCall said.

iCall CEO Arlo Gilbert said Apple's change of heart " heralds a new era for VoIP applications on mobile platforms, especially for iCall and our free calling model."