I am so excited about this.
AT&T and Apple are facing a close scrutiny from FCC over the Google Voice iPhone app rejection. Apple says they didn’t reject the app but evaluating it.
AT&T said they had nothing to do with the rejection.
FCC is looking into this now. AT&T is backing down. Consumers win.
AT&T has backed down from their previous stance where they didn’t allow Voice Over IP (VOIP) applications on their data network. VOIP iPhone apps like Skype were restricted in use to Wifi connections on iPhone.
Now, AT&T has announced that Apple can enable VOIP apps on iPhone on their data network.
AT&T EXTENDS VOIP TO 3G NETWORK FOR IPHONE
DALLAS, October 6, 2009 – 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.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
There is an of argument for AT&T – their data network would be strained by all the data traffic.
But I think it is moot. AT&T allowed VOIP apps on all other phones but just not on iPhones. They are probably more worried about VOIP apps cutting directly into their profits. This is reasonable as VOIP providers like Skype offer cheaper international and phone rates than AT&T.
Bad news for telcos but great news for consumers.
Although I have heard many complaints, my personal experience with AT&T has been uneventful to say the least and I don’t have any gripes. Except I would love to see Google Voice approved and tethering enabled for iPhone.
To their credit, they have been upgrading their 3G network in many cities and this is another step in the right direction.
What do you think of this whole situation?
[via Gizmodo]
