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What is Mobile VoIP?
Mobile VoIP refers to technology that allows voice calls to be made on mobile phones using Voice over Internet Protocol. These particular communication protocols do not replace regular cellular service on the phone, but are available as an additional communications option to VoIP subscribers. In order to access this technology, a person must first become a mobile VoIP customer and must have a phone that allows unrestricted Internet access. Most providers also allow unrestricted calling to other subscribers within the VoIP network. Often, the Internet can be accessed on a mobile phone by using a WiFi hotspot, which further helps users save money on voice and other data charges typically incurred through normal cellular usage.
As mobile VoIP technology improves and becomes more accessible, consumers are finding it to be a welcome alternative to traditional mobile communication services. This is particularly true for individuals who frequently travel internationally and find mobile VoIP calls to be significantly less expensive than international roaming rates offered by mobile carriers. This technology may also offer international text messaging rates that are far more affordable in some instances.
Smartphone users are the most likely to use a mobile VoIP application, since these consumers also routinely use a mobile phone’s web browser for data services. Most also utilize WiFi, 3G or 4G connections for enhanced download speeds and general data connections. Since most smartphone consumers have voice and data plans that already support high usage and allow for optimal use of such handheld devices, using VoIP for voice communications when roaming outside of an individual’s home country is the most common use for this technology. This is because international calls are not commonly offered in regular service plans and can be quite expensive for travelers.
Sometimes referred to as MoIP, some mobile VoIP providers also offer mobile applications to enhance social networking activities. Consumers who download applications on select smartphones are able to engage in voice chat with friends on popular social networking sites over a phone’s Internet connection. This service is only available in select countries, however.
While mass marketed to general consumers, mobile VoIP is also popular among business smartphone users, as well. Governments in some countries, however, have sought to restrict the use of such technology, as well as certain phones capable of engaging in its use. Where it is unrestricted, mobile VoIP technology is becoming a useful business tool.
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![Smartphone users are most likely to use mobile VoIP applications.]()
By: N-Media-ImagesSmartphone users are most likely to use mobile VoIP applications.
Discussion Comments
Has anyone had good results using voice chat on their smartphones with MoIP?
I work for a company where this is something they have been looking in to for their sales force.
Something like this would be very helpful because they have employees scattered all over the world. I know they are looking at all the pros and cons and will probably be adding it in the near future.
I just wondered what the quality is like and how easy it is to implement and use.
@honeybees - I wasn't impressed with the quality of VoIP when it was first introduced either. What bothered me the most was the lag time I experienced when I was talking on the phone.
I have seen improvements with all of the upgrades being made in this industry. With the WiFi signals being stronger and 4G now being available, all of that makes VoIP that much better.
I could even see a difference when I went from 3G to 4G on my mobile phone. All of these faster download speeds should do nothing but make using VoIP more enjoyable.
Much of my job requires me to travel, and I spend a lot of time on the road and overseas as well.
Using the VoIP technology on my mobile phone saves me a lot of money when I travel internationally. Now when I need to make calls or sent texts when I am out of the country, I don't think twice about it.
The cost is so much more affordable than it would be if I had to depend on the regular international rates.
Since the quality is also better than it used to be, this is the best, and most economical way I have found to stay in touch when I am in another country.
I must say, they have made some good improvements in the technology and quality of the mobile VoIP software in the last few years.
When this technology first came out, I was excited about the concept of it, but the quality was not very good so I never used it.
As the quality has improved, I can see where this can really be beneficial for a lot of people. Even though the idea is good, sometimes it just takes awhile for the technology to catch up with the concept.
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