Skype + Mobile phones

[medhead]

I have used Skype on my home wireless connection from my iPhone and it is great. I have yet to use it over the 3G network though due to concerns over data volumes being used...

Not to mention that use of voip over 3G is blocked on the iphone as well. this is where the pennytel app kicks in for me because they offer a callback connection service. Cost more then a normal VOIP call because I pay for a VOIP call to my mobile as well as to the distination. But even that is cheaper than paying Telstra rates, especially if ringing O/S.

I use SKPE, Pennytel and Fring on iPhone and all have been acceptable quality.

 

[djfuzz]

Hmm. Interesting that this years old thread was bumped up today, given the news that AT&T has just announced that it will permit the use of Skype and Google Voice over its 3G network, thereby removing Apple's own reason to stop developers from using this functionality.

AT&T- News Room

AT&T* today announced it has taken the steps necessary so that Apple can enable VoIP applications on iPhone to run on AT&T’s wireless network. Previously, VoIP applications on iPhone were enabled for Wi-Fi connectivity. For some time, AT&T has offered a variety of other wireless devices that enable VoIP applications on 3G, 2G and Wi-Fi networks. AT&T this afternoon informed Apple Inc. and the FCC of its decision.
In late summer, AT&T said it was taking a fresh look at VoIP capabilities on iPhone for use on AT&T’s 3G network, consistent with its regular review of device features and capabilities to ensure attractive options for consumers.
“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 and CEO, AT&T Mobility & 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 website. Additionally, because AT&T uses GSM technology, the most pervasive and open wireless technology platform in the world, we support customers using any GSM phone that works on AT&T's frequencies.

So it seems that once the changes have been made to Apple's developer agreements and Skype / Google update the apps, we'll all be getting a lovely present - though how lovely it is for us with Telstra's astronomical data rates will obviously have some limitations.