News
AT&T opens 3G network to iPhone VoIP apps
By Charles Starrett
Senior Editor, iLounge
Published: Tuesday, October 6, 2009
News Category: Apps + Games
AT&T has announced that it has taken the steps needed so that Apple can begin allowing VoIP applications on the iPhone to run on its 3G network. Prior to the announcement, AT&T had blocked VoIP applications on its network, forcing applications such as Skype and Truphone to run over Wi-Fi only. The company previously allowed VoIP applications on other wireless devices, and has informed both Apple and the FCC of its decision. It will likely be some time before VoIP-over-3G applications begin appearing in the App Store, however, as the developers of VoIP apps will need to update their code to allow for 3G connectivity, and Apple will then need to approve the updates.
“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.”
Related Stories
- Periscope Audio Lab releases SpaceSampler
- Evernote Hello improves contact entry features
- eMailGanizer Pro adds Universal Inbox, Smart Folders
- Galaxy on Fire 2 HD update opens the Kaamo Club
- Smartr Contacts adds e-mail viewing support
- Path releases update to address contact privacy issue
Comments
If you have a comment, news tip, advertising inquiry, or coverage request, a question about iPods/iPhones/iPad or accessories, or if you sell or market iPod/iPhone/iPad products or services, read iLounge's Comments + Questions policies before posting, and fully identify yourself if you do. We will delete comments containing advertising, astroturfing, trolling, personal attacks, offensive language, or other objectionable content, then ban and/or publicly identify violators.
Recent News
- NPD: Apple top electronics brand of 2011
- Incase teams with Shepard Fairey on iPhone case
- Apple sued over iPhone, Apple TV wireless interaction
- Apple exec Cue accepts Grammy honoring Steve Jobs
- ThinkGeek intros iCade 8-bitty game controller
- Apple requests audits of Foxconn by FLA
- Apple sues Samsung, seeks to block Galaxy Nexus in U.S.
- AT&T doubles upgrade fee to $36
- Apple TV supplies constrained, hint at new model?
- 16GB iPad 2 sees deep discount ahead of new model
Recent Reviews
- Cygnett Metalicus for iPhone 4/4S
- Cygnett Platform Universal Tablet Stand
- Cygnett FlexiView Adjustable Stand for iPad
- FLOS / Philippe Starck D’E-light
- Twelve South HoverBar for iPad 2
- Cygnett Apollo for iPhone 4/4S
- Case-Mate Pop! ID for iPhone 4/4S
- Case-Mate Pop! for iPhone 4/4S
- Case-Mate Pop! With Stand for iPhone 4/4S
- Solid Line Products RightShift 2 Removable Keyboard Case for iPad 2
Recent Articles
- iOS Gems: Adventures of Tintin, Reckless Racing 2 + Scramble With Friends
- Ask iLounge 2-3-12
- Making The Case For - And Against - An Apple iTV Television
- Instant Expert: iTunes U for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch
- Instant Expert: Secrets & Features of iBooks 2.0
- iLounge’s 2012 CES Best of Show Awards: Honorable Mentions
- iLounge’s 2012 CES Best of Show Awards: iPod, iPhone, iPad + Mac
- iOS Gems: Bug Princess, Dora Hops Into Phonics, It’s A Small World, Sleepy Jack + X Is For X-Ray
- The Complete Guide to Managing iTunes Videos
- Editorial: As CES Grows, Will Microsoft’s Loss Be Apple’s Gain?
1
What he was thinking when spewing his corporate hogwash = man, get the FCC & DOJ off my back.
Posted by Xing on October 6, 2009 at 3:02 PM (PDT)
2
soo is this the counter attack towards the verizon attack? .. lol, i love my iphone but ATT is the worst service i’ve had
Posted by dennis on October 6, 2009 at 4:38 PM (PDT)
3
Am I the only one who doesn’t understand this? AT&T are clearly struggling to handle loads from iPhone users and their (our) data hogging apps. People chatting away on VOIP apps are only going to add more strain.
I’m not an expert on this, but as yet another frustrated NYC iPhone user, I’m just speaking from experience and common sense.
Anyone?
Posted by Jdub on October 6, 2009 at 7:48 PM (PDT)
4
So when do we get voip over 3g over here in the UK eh?
Posted by Godfrem on October 6, 2009 at 10:33 PM (PDT)
5
Great news, so finally VoIP through iPhone over 3G is allowed! AT&T have got to wake up and realize that data no matter voice, SMS, voip or html, can passes through 3G. I will test skype and Vopium and see how good they work on 3G for VoIP calls.
Posted by John on October 6, 2009 at 10:43 PM (PDT)
6
What about tethering? Hello? MMS is nice, and VOIP over 3g is nice, but what would really be useful to some of us is tethering…
Posted by DomArch on October 7, 2009 at 7:29 AM (PDT)