Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) has changed the way people communicate, and most people who have heard of or used it would agree. VoIP has made it possible to send voice packets over the Internet instead of communicating over public switched telephone networks (PSTN). With all its success and the move to broadband, the move to switches, better sound quality and connections, where does VoIP fit in?
1. For starters, look for VoIP to rapidly evolve in the mobile industry as it has already done with landlines. Third-generation (3G) users are expected to reach more than 230 million by the end of 2012. Look for exciting new headsets that will also cause a stir, such as the launch of Apple’s 3G headset.
2. Watch for VoIP to maintain its integration into web 2.0 interfaces like eBay (it may actually be selling Skype), Facebook, and Myspace. VoIP will continue to find new ways to improve similar websites, whether they are auction sites, social networking sites, or blogs. The ability to block unwanted calls and privacy is another factor that can lead to a successful VoIP integration. People need to feel in control and don’t want disruptive calls.
3. The integration of VoIP in places that are more convenient for people
accessing it, as in web browsers is another innovation to look for. accessories, gold
An add-on for browsers that allow enhanced content, it can allow people to connect to their VoIP phone where they most often use their computers for online activities. Macromedia has announced that a flash plugin will include a session initiation protocol client (SIP client), so
be even easier for websites to create SIP applications. People like web interface interaction to be convenient and useful, therefore VoIP plugins are the way to go.
4. Mobile apps will make VoIP stand out in 2008 like Google’s Android which will have an open source mobile platform and the Bonanza app which Google is going to market. Google has encouraged developers to create applications for its operating system, and some betas have already been created.
5. Most newer Nokia phones (E and N series, like E51) have SIP clients built in and WIFI built into the phones as well. This means that anyone who buys one of these phones can use VoIP in conjunction with their cellular service when on a WIFI hotspot.
6. Look for VoIP in gaming as gamers continue to move online and interact with each other. Skype announced that it has partnered with Sony on its PSP systems to enable VoIP calls with SkypeIn and SkypeOut.
With all these new trends, applications and developments to watch out for, VoIP has not slowed down as some would say. It still continues to evolve and save businesses, call centers and consumers money while continuing to improve quality and features.