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.
