iPhone's archive
AT&T: Simply Addicted to the iPhone
The launch of Apple’s new iPhone 3GS was the best sales day ever for AT&T’s retail stores, while the number of orders taken at its online store also hit an all-time high, according to an internal memo obtained by MacDailyNews, a blog devoted to all things Apple. While the memo doesn’t outline the precise number […]
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Akamai to Make iPhone Video Streaming Smooth
Akamai today said it would provide adaptive bit-rate streaming to deliver video content from web sites to the Apple iPhone 3G and devices running the iPhone OS 3.0 operating system. Basically, using adaptive bit-rate streaming means folks can watch streaming video on their iPhones or iPod Touches with fewer stops and starts. Adaptive streaming adjusts […]
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eBuddy for iPhone Supports Push Notifications
Ok, so the just launched Skype 1.1 for iPhone doesn’t support push notifications, but eBuddy, a brand new app for the iPhone or iPod touch does support push notifications. What does this mean? It means you can close eBuddy and still receive instant messages (IMs) from your buddies. Further, eBuddy is an IM aggregator supporting MSN, Yahoo, AIM, ICQ, Gtalk, and Facebook. Too bad they don’t support Skype though like fring does. eBuddy also supports Google Android phones.
Check out the features for eBuddy on the iPhone & iPod touch:
- One buddy list for MSN, Yahoo, AIM, ICQ, Gtalk, and Facebook
- Stay online when you exit the app
- Get push notifications for incoming messages when you exit the app*
- Reconnect automatically if connection is lost
- Get offline messages after reconnecting
- Get new message alerts & typing alerts in the chat screen
- Easily switch between chats by swiping your screen
- Shake your iPhone or iPod Touch to send a buzzer
- Display pictures, personal message and status
- Emoticons & buzzers
- Sound & vibration
- Multiple IM networks
- Multiple accounts for each IM network
- Buddy list management
- Offline messages
- Group chat support
Push notifications for incoming messages are only available if you have the latest iPhone 3.0 software on your device. eBuddy will also soon be adding landscape mode. Oh, and did I mention unlike similar app Beejive ($9.99) & IM+ with Push ($9.99), eBuddy is a free app in the Apple App store? Some minor complaints include it only supports push for up to 30 minutes and it doesn’t support file sharing (audio, picture, etc.). Still for a free IM aggregator app, this one is definitely a must for the iPhone! 
Whatcha waitin’ for? Go grab this cool app now!
Tags: AIM, android, apple, ebuddy, facebook, google, Gtalk, ICQ, im, instant message, iphone, MSN, skype, Yahoo
Related tags: ebuddy iphone, incoming messages, notifications incoming, ebuddy, iphone, notifications
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Mobile Phone Sales to Decline Over Next 5 Years
Mobile phone sales are going to decline sharply over the next five years, to the tune of 1.04 billion devices, according to Informa Telecoms & Media. In its new report, “The Financial Crisis: Analyzing the impact on global mobile markets,” the research firm has revised its forecast for device sales over the next five years […]
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Skype for iPhone 1.1 Update
Late last night I saw an update notifications on my iPhone 3GS for Skype. New version? Sweet! I updated it and checked out the release notes for Skype 1.1 for the iPhone and iPod touch. It sports some new languages and now includes Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese (Brazil), Portuguese (Portugal), Russian, Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Swedish and Traditional Chinese and of course English.
The bigest new feature is the ability to send text messages (SMS) using Skype credit. They also added voicemail support and improved dialing help when calling phones.
According to the official Skype blog, “we’ve made some improvements to the look and feel, particularly when calling phones using the dial pad.”
You can download the update in iTunes, or even better just launch the App Store on your iPod touch or iPhone and then tap Updates to get the latest version of all your apps!
Some things I would have liked to seen in this release:
- Push notifications (Skype might have to haggle with Apple on this one since Apple places restrictions on third party apps that can run in the background on the iPhone.)
- Video conferencing support - Though that probably isn’t coming any time soon.
So what would you like to see in a future release of Skype for iPhone?
Tags: apple, im, iphone, iphone 3gs, itunes, push notifications, skype, Skype 1.1 for the iPhone, voip
Related tags: skype iphone, calling phones, skype, iphone, release, update
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Apple, Nokia, RIM, Samsung, & others settle on micro-USB phone charger standard
One phone charger for all? There can be only one! According to Reuters, telecom firms have backed standard phone charger in Europe. No, hell hasn’t frozen over. Yes, you will finally be able to use a single charger that works with any future mobile phone you purchase - at least in Europe anyway. That’s one less charger to pack when traveling and one less charger to throw away when you upgrade your mobile phone. The top mobile telephone suppliers, including Nokia, Sony Ericsson, and others have agreed to back an EU-wide standard for phone chargers. New mobile phones will use a standard micro-USB socket to ensure compatibility.
Motorola, LG, NEC, Qualcomm, Research in Motion, Samsung and Texas Instruments have also signed the agreement. Interestingly, Apple has also signed on. You mean Apple which charges licensing rights for their proprietary docking cable is on board too? Well, well… Isn’t Apple fighting Palm over the Pre emulating an Apple iPod to enable iTunes support? Seems against Apple’s nature to support a connection standard that has enabled such a huge third-party cottage industry for Apple’s iPod and iPhone products. For example, Apple licenses their connector to FM transmitters, iPod external speakers, and more.
So one charger for any mobile phone, surely there’s a catch…
Tags: apple, iphone, ipod, itunes, NEC, nokia, palm, qualcomm, RIM, samsung, texas intruments
Related tags: mobile phone, phone charger, standard phone, apple, charger, phone
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Android This Week: A Hero Rides Into Town
Dominating the Android world this week was the announcement by handset giant HTC that it will be releasing the most innovative phone to date using the OS by Google, the HTC Hero. This thin, curvy handset shares some of the features of the Android-powered HTC Magic, also known as the myTouch 3G, such as a […]
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Long Tail of iPhone Apps Is Extra Long — and Not In a Good Way
Only 19 percent of iPhone/iPod Touch applications in the AdMob network had more than 10,000 users in May, and a mere 5 percent had more than 100,000 users, according to the mobile ad network’s latest Mobile Metrics report. With more than 50,000 apps available on the iPhone, the long tail is in full effect — […]
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Are Steve Jobs’ Innards Really Any of Our Business?
So now we know the dark, sinister story: Steve Jobs took someone’s liver in Memphis.
Yes, it’s true! I read it in the Wall Street Journal. After sequestering himself in the haunted, Faulknerian chambers of some abandoned manor in the city of Elvis and the ancient Greeks, Jobs enlisted some accomplices to procure the liver so […]
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WildCharge Wire-free charger for iPhone & iPod touch
WildCharge, makers of wire-free charging skins for various mobile phone models today has announced a wire-free skin for the iPhone and iPod touch, which enable the popular Apple devices to be charged instantly simply placing them on the WildCharger Pad™ or on other surfaces that are embedded with the WildCharge technology.
“The market is demanding a move towards wire-free charging, and WildCharge is thrilled to answer that call in adding Apple devices to our lineup of commercially available products,” said WildCharge chairman and CEO Dennis Grant. “With the addition of these two designs to our reference design library, both of which are Apple “Made for iPod” and “Works with iPhone” approved, WildCharge is solidifying our position as the leading, wire-free charging developer in the industry.”
The WildCharge Skins are durable, protective, form-fitting cases that when placed on the WildCharger Pad, transfer wire-free power from the Pad to the device inside the skin. The soft cases provide the same protection consumers already enjoy from traditional skins, but have the added value and convenience of enabling a wire-free charge. The WildCharger Pad, used in conjunction with the skins, delivers full power to multiple devices, allowing them to simultaneously charge together on the Pad while eliminating the clutter caused by multiple chargers and power strips. The iPod touch skin is available today and the iPhone skin will be available in early July. WildCharge Skins are also available for the Blackberry Pearl and Curve, and all are sold for $34.99 at WildCharge.com. I have a review unit headed my way to test on my brand spankin’ new iPhone 3GS, so I’ll do a review once I get it.
In addition to the WilCharge Skins, WildCharge recently announced a Universal Adapter for mobile devices that works with the WildCharger Pad. The Universal Adapter is able to charge over 150 different cell phone models from major brands such as Motorola, RIM, and Nokia through the use of interchangeable tips, with the list of compatible devices constantly expanding.
WildCharge claim that provide the only commercially available technology that enables licensing partners to deliver wire-free charging to a variety of devices that require varying amounts of power. From cell phones that require only a few watts of power to laptops that need over a hundred watts, virtually any device that has a rechargeable battery can be powered from a single, contiguous, and non-discriminating charging surface. WildCharge technology has met the industry’s most stringent regulatory and safety standards, including UL, CE, FCC, RoHS, and has been certified across all of the GSM bands.
Tags: apple, charger, charging, dennis grant, iphone, iphone 3gs, ipod touch, power, wildcharge, wildcharger pad
Related tags: commercially available, wildcharge technology, wildcharge skins, universal adapter, phone models, wildcharge
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iPhone Still Leads the Superphone Derby
The consumer love affair with Apple’s iPhone shows
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FitOrbit Brings a Personal Trainer to Your iPhone
For iPhone users, wading through a sea of fitness and weight-loss applications can be confusing and time-consuming — and, much like adhering to the latest diet craze, it’s often hard to stick with using the application once you download it. Los Angeles-based startup Global Fitness Media on Monday is launching FitOrbit — the […]
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Skype Video Calls on Google Android
What if you could do Skype VoIP & video conferencing on the Google Android? Sounds pretty damn cool, doesn’t it? Especially given all the media hype surrounding the new iPhone 3GS. I already tweeted my displeasure that the new Apple iPhone 3GS doesn’t support Flash and also tweeted my annoyance that Apple didn’t put a front-facing camera for video chat support using Skype. Thus, while the iPhone supports a native Skype app, it only supports VoIP and not video chat. And don’t expect video chat anytime soon either. As Skype Journal remarked, “iPhone programmers can use the webcam to store video to a file, but won’t be able to write apps that manipulate or route the stream. This means Skype for iPhone won’t be able to add video calling any time soon.”
Well forget about the damned new iPhone! I have a method that “should” enable Skype video chat on the Google Android mobile phone.
How do you ask? Well, first we need to “cook” in a Flash player into Google Android’s ROM, since Flash support on the Android isn’t officially released yet. But we’re not waiting on Google, so let’s get cookin’!
Here are the steps to get Skype video chat working on the Google Android:
1) Download the HTC SuperHero V2 ROM for the Google Android
2) To keep memory freed up and automatically install apps to SD, go download this. (direct link to .zip file here)
Download a2sd.zip, unzip put the unzipped file onto your C drive
Open command prompt and type these:
adb remount
adb push c:\a2sd.sh /system/bin
3) Upgrade to the latest SPL & radio by heading over to this page on android-unleashed.com
4) Launch Skype Flash application and make a video call to another Skype user.
Where the heck is the “Skype Flash” application you ask?
Oh, I’m sorry, I can’t tell you that. I want to test this first to make sure it works & capture some screenshots to put here as proof.
Sorry to be such a tease, but I want to be the first to get a Skype video chat call to work on a popular mobile phone platform. Stay tuned though!
Tags: apple, flash, google android, iphone, skype, video, video chat, video conferencing, voip
Related tags: google android, skype video, flash application, mobile phone, skype flash, skype
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iPhone 3GS Teardown Reveals All, Sort Of
The iPhone 3GS has been released and, as is geek tradition, torn apart to see what’s inside. RapidRepair went over to France to pick one up from Orange and then promptly disassembled it, only to discover that much of the machine is similar to the previous iPhone 3G. The design of this version is almost […]
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Turn Your iPhone Photos Into Postcards With HazelMail
I don’t know about you, but the last thing I want to do when I’m traveling is track down a post office so I can send family and friends postcards. I often buy postcards that I intend to mail, but I’m always trying to squeeze so many things into my trip that I never […]
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How iPhone 3.0 Will Impact Wireless Networks
Nowhere has the impact of the iPhone been more evident than in the rise of mobile data usage, and with the release of version 3.0, such usage is set to spike even further upward. An improved user experience, new multimedia features and push notifications will see networks come under and even heavier load.
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Counting Down to iPhone 3.0 OS
The world (or at least iPod Touch and iPhone owners) is eagerly awaiting the release of the new iPhone 3.0 OS, which is likely to be available for download at 10 a.m. PDT. There have been rumors flying around that the download is going to be late by a day.
These rumors are patently false. We […]
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AccuTerra iPhone App Lets Users Access 3-D Maps Outside Network Coverage
When you’re on vacation in Yosemite National Park, a GPS can only help you out when you’re driving to and from there. But what about when you’re trying to navigate Yosemite’s winding trails on foot? Denver-based Intermap Technologies is launching a GPS mapping iPhone 3.0 application, AccuTerra, later this week that’s aimed at making […]
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Sen. Kerry Wants Wants His iPhone Unlocked
The iPhone has sure brought a lot of whiners out of the woodwork. Today Sen. John Kerry joined them by publishing a blog post on the Save The Internet blog arguing against exclusivity of certain phones on some wireless networks. Yesterday, Kerry sent a letter to the FCC in preparation for hearings scheduled tomorrow that […]
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Opera Unite Hopes Old Idea Entices New Developers
Opera Software today is trumpeting its new technology offering called Opera Unite that uses the Opera browser to turn your PC into a server that can host photos, files, music, and even act as a Facebook-style wall for exchanging notes and chats. The idea is similar to services such as FolderShare that allow you to […]
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Will Sprint Thwart Sling Media’s 3G Palm Pre App Plans?
Sling Media is developing a version of its SlingPlayer application, which allows users to access TV content from their mobile phones, for the Palm Pre that would work on both on Wi-Fi and 3G. But Sling’s hopes for 3G support could be dashed by the Pre’s mobile carrier, Sprint, which is currently locked in […]
Elektrobit MID Reference Design Aims to put Linux Desktop apps + Smartphone in your pocket
Smartphones, netbooks, smartbooks, and Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs) while very similar feature-wise, each has their own distinct advantages. Smartphones such as the iPhone have been widely successful, while the MID market has been a bit slow to take off. Elektrobit Corporation (EB), based in Oulu, Finland aims to change that with their new MID reference design that combines the “pocketability” of smartphones with the power of PCs/netbooks since it can run desktop Linux applications. Picture an iPhone that can actually run full version Linux applications such as Firefox, Opera, OpenOffice, Thunderbird, SSH client, and more. That’s exactly what you’ll get with Elektrobit’s (EB) new MID reference design. EB’s sleek, media-centric MID reference device takes the power of the PC and makes it pocket-able so you don’t have to compromise on mobile capabilities.
I spoke with EB’s Vesa Kiviranta Vice President, Mobile Internet Device Solutions, Wireless Solutions BU about their new reference design. Vesa explained that it’s based on Intel’s next generation Moorestown platform. The reference design includes touch-screen support with multi-touch (cool!) support. It uses the latest 3D and high resolution capacitive sensing touch screen (3.97″) powered by EB Touch & Feel technology. Because the screen measures nearly 4 inches (3.97″), it fits into the MID category, while smartphones have screens smaller than 3.9 inches and netbooks have screens larger than 5 inches.The reference design relies on a Linux-based OS with EB’s MID UI & Application framework based on QT. It also features EB Navigation Suite with integrated GPS.
It supports two cameras (front & back of phone) so not only can you snap photos, it can also easily support videoconferencing/videochat. I asked EB about support for Skype video chat and they told me it will indeed be supported in their MID design. In fact, they tested it using the Linux Skype application in their labs. As far as I know, this marks the first time a pocketable mobile phone can perform Skype videoconferencing! Cool stuff! I know many iPhone fans were very disappointed the new iPhone 3GS didn’t add a front-facing camera (myself included), which would allow for videochat capabilities. Of course, the current Skype for iPhone client doesn’t support video, but my sources tell me it’s in the works. It will be very hard to have a videoconference if you have to turn the iPhone around so the camera is facing you, but not the iPhone screen. Basically, they’ll be able to see you, but you won’t be able to see them - unless you spin the iPhone back around.
Tags: chat, eb, Elektrobit, mid, mobile phone, netbook, reference design, skype, smart phone, Vesa Kiviranta, videoconferencing, voip
Related tags: reference design, mobile internet, linux applications, touch screen, iphone, design
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Download iPhone OS 3.0 for free
Can’t wait till next week to get the official iPhone 3.0 OS release? Well you can get it now for free! I’ll provide the step-by-step instructions to get this latest firmware release installed on your iPhone. Technically, this is piracy, so be sure you only do this for “testing” purposes and the “check is in the mail” to Apple for when the upgrade release becomes officially available. 
1) You need to search for a torrent files called “iPhone OS 3.0 3G GM Golden Master Build 7A341″. This is the FINAL RELEASE that will be released next week. If to lazy to search via your favorite torrent client or website, you can just get it here on The Pirate Bay. The image is called iPhone1,2_3.0_7A341_Restore.ipsw and it should be 230.05MB
This is for the iPhone 3G. If you have the original iPhone 2G you’ll have to look for another version with a filename called iPhone1,1_3.0_7A341_Restore.ipsw (only difference is iPhone1,2 vs. iPhone1,1. You can Google for this file and find some links for the iPhone 2G model. I’ll include them here for you lazy folks:
iPhone 2G:
iPhone1,1_3.0_7A341_Restore.ipsw.part1.rar
iPhone1,1_3.0_7A341_Restore.ipsw.part2.rar
iPhone1,1_3.0_7A341_Restore.ipsw.part3.rar
(via iPhoneHeat)
2) Backup you existing iPhone and sync your files to be safe. You’ll be able to go back to your last version if things go awry.
3) After you download the .ipsw file launch Apple iTunes
4) In iTunes, on the iPhone screen Shift+Click the Restore button. For Macs its Option+Click the Restore button.
5) Select the .ipsw firmware file you downloaded. If you downloaded the multiple rar files you need to extract them and combine them together.
6) Perform iPhone firmware update! Rejoice, you’re on your way to iPhone 3.0 goodness! Copy paste [sniff] 
. Makes me cry everything I think I can finally have copy/paste on an iPhone. It’s like when cavemen finally discovered fire.
7) Watch the progress bar and “Restoring iPhone firmware…” text while deviously rubbing your hands together.
When done the iPhone will restart and then resync your data.
9) Enjoy the iPhone operating system Steve Jobs should have released a long time ago!
Note: This is the same exact software release launching next week, so there is little risk of bricking your iPhone. You can just as easily purchase the software next week and brick your iPhone.
Tags: 1_3.0_7A341_Restore.ipsw, 7A341, apple, download, golden master build, iphone, iPhone, iphone 3g, iphone 3gs
Related tags: called iphone, click restore, iphone firmware, restore button, iphone, restore
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AT&T’s New Network May Not Help Your Old iPhone
Apple unveiled the new iPhone today, and once again the device is inspiring lust while the network inspires loathing. While a lot of sites are hacked off that AT&T will not support tethering (using your phone as a modem) and MMS picture messaging on the iPhone 3G right away, owners of older 3G iPhones in […]
Top 5 Products I Want to Buy After Seeing the Apple WWDC Keynote
I probably should have learned my lesson from my laptop battery crapping out and my iPhone dropping calls on the overloaded AT&T network at Moscone in San Francisco today. But at its developers’ conference, Apple offered some tasty new products that this consumer wants to get her grubby hands on.
Here are the top five things […]
Palm Pre: 3 Things We Like & 3 Things We Don’t
After six long months, Palm’s Pre is here. And I do mean here, as I woke early and headed to a local Sprint store this morning. Availability reports vary by location; some stores have large lines and small quantities of stock while others (like mine) have short lines and plenty of Pre to go around. […]
The Summer of the Superphone
Last September, on the eve of our first Mobilize conference, John SanGiovanni, co-founder and VP of product design at Zumobi, talked to us about the coming era of the superphone. Eschewing the smartphone moniker, SanGiovanni noted how this new class of handsets — led by none other than the iPhone — were starting to become […]
With 2M Downloads, Where Is Right on Track
Where, a location-based mobile application from Boston-based uLocate, is quickly becoming a must-have on newer mobile platforms such as the iPhone and Android. It’s been download 2 million times and garnered a million registered users, numbers that are likely to head further north once Palm launches its Pre — Where is a showcase application on […]
sipgate enters U.S VoIP Broadband Market offering free calls
Today, sipgate is launching a new free VoIP broadband phone service called sipgate one. sipgate one is similar to Vonage, Packet8, and other broadband VoIP providers, but with some additional cool features and a fairly unique pricing plan. For instance, you get a free telephone number, no set-up costs and no monthly charges or minimums.
I spoke with sipgate CEO Thilo Salmon to find out more about sipgate one. First, unlike many VoIP broadband providers, sipgate one isn’t tied to any specific SIP hardware (locked ATAs, SIP phones, softphones, etc.), so you can use it with your favorite SIP device or use a SIP-based ATA and connect your favorite analog cordless phone. Want to use a softphone but don’t want to mess with SIP credentials? No problem - sipgate one has a free softphone app that will autoprovision for you. Those that want to use their favorite SIP device will be pleased to see a helpful drop-down list of many popular SIP devices with corresponding screenshots on how to configure the device to work with sipgate one.
What does it cost?
When using a VoIP phone, outbound calls to other sipgate users are completely free, just like Skype. However, inbound calls on the free U.S. phone number are also free, unlike Skype which I know charges a monthly or yearly SkypeIn subscription. I was a bit surprised sipgate was offering the first phone number for free, so I contacted Thilo a second time to confirm. He responded, “The first U.S. number is indeed completely free. So we are inviting everyone to sign up for a free number and as long as one only uses sipgate to receive calls on a SIP phone the service is free in its entirety. We do not even ask for a credit card. That does set us apart from Skype. While they do not charge per incoming minute, Skype charges a yearly (monthly?) fee as you have pointed out.”
When dialing other phone numbers in the U.S. and Canada are just 1.9¢ per minute and calls to toll-free numbers are free. Other rates apply when calling other countries. Thus, sipgate only charges for outgoing calls and E911 ($1.90 monthly), if activated. No other charges or fees are leveraged on a sipgate one subscriber. Thus, to get started you can initially charge your account with a minimum of $10 with automatic crediting if the balance falls below a user-specified amount ($5, $10, $20, $50). Thilo told me that they aim to keep their international rates lower than Skype’s to make them a very compelling option to potential customers. I then asked Thilo who was comparable feature-wise and he responded, “Google Voice. They don’t allow you to connect a SIP phone, but the features are very similar.”
The true power behind sipgate is its Web-based interface which gives you full access to your voicemail messages, recordings, and faxes. I tested a preview version of sipgate one and was pretty impressed with the features and ease of use. My experiences in my mini-review of sipgate follow below…
Thilo told me that they designed the Web-based interface with Google’s Gmail in mind. For instance, you can search, star/unstar a recording, as well as label recordings, which are very similar to Gmail. Additionally, the interface allows users to call someone back with a single click, as well as divert calls to other landline or mobile phones. Starting a call is as simple as clicking the New Call button and then choosing which phone device you wish to use. Below you’ll see I have 3 options for a new call - an arbitary connection (specify any phone number ad hoc), phone of Tom Keating, and Mobile or Landline of Tom Keating.
As seen by the screenshot above, you can bridge a call to any of your phone devices by initiating a call via the web. This is very similar to Jajah, who made the web-based calling method famous. This interface can be used on your web-enabled smartphone - Windows Mobile, Apple iPhone, etc. if the device doesn’t have an embedded SIP stack or 3rd party SIP softphone installed for making outbound calls.
Mobility features are just as powerful. You can have your home, office and mobile phone ring in parallel. If you are using a mobile phone with a SIP stack, (many Nokia series have SIP) you can be in the car, receive a VoIP call, and then simply press *6 on your mobile phone to record the call. When you next gain access to a web browser you can retrieve the call recording. This is perfect for sales people on the go and who need to enter important call details into a CRM system.
Other features included the ability to customize your outgoing message by uploading an mp3 file, divert calls to another number, create an ad-hoc conference with the touch of a button, and the ability to view missed calls with CallerID info. I asked Thilo what they use on the back-end and he told me they use a fork of SIP Express Router, which enables Class 5 type features. Additionally, Thilo stated there is no maximum storage limit for voicemail and faxes.
Outbound faxing is a breeze. You can click some fields on the web interface and add the fax number, from/to info, add a signature, and of course body text. You can also attach a PDF and it will render it. I asked Thilo about Word support and he said that was in the works.
Inbound faxing does require a separate phone number, but there is no fee to receive faxes. There is a nominal $2.90 one-time fee per additional phone number. I asked Thilo about CNG autodetection of fax tones using just a single universal phone number, but he said “We have found that most people don’t really like that.” Personally, I’d rather just have one phone number on my business card, but it’s a minor complaint.
“There is simply no barrier to people disconnecting their old phone lines anymore. Phone and cable companies have long been pushing voice plans in the region of $25 to $40 per month–which end up being as much as $60 or more with extra charges–and that’s just ridiculous,” said Thilo Salmon, CEO of sipgate. “Even with calls to other landlines and mobile phones, most users will spend less than $5 a month using sipgate one. And for those people only receiving incoming calls on their VoIP phone, the service is completely free.”
sipgate is also readying a multi-user edition of the service aimed at small businesses, which will not only replace landlines, but also customer premise phone systems. sipgate is certainly setting a new low-price benchmark with bundled powerful features that should cause VoIP fans to seriously consider them. Free phone number, free toll-free calling, free inbound calling, free inbound faxes, what’s not to love? 
Tags: broadband voip, e911, free calls, iphone, packet8, sipgate, sipgate one, skype, voip, vonage, windows mobile
Related tags: phone number, asked thilo, phone service, mobile phone, based interface, phone
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Truphone 3.0 comes to the Apple iPod touch
Truphone today launched Truphone 3.0, a major new upgrade to its mobile VoIP application for the Apple iPod touch. Truphone 3.0 was already available for the Apple iPhone, so this release just brings the latest features to the popular iPhone touch.
IM services currently supported include Skype, MSN Messenger, AIM, Yahoo! Messenger and Google Talk. It also does free calls when in Wi-Fi to other Truphone users as well as free WiFi calls to Skype and Google Talk users. Though I would like to see 3G data support to enable VoIP over 3G. Yes I know Apple blocks VoIP over 3G apps, but if you jailbreak your iPhone, you should be able to make VoIP over 3G calls. (read my tutorial on how to do VoIP over 3G on jailbroken iPhones) Yet, there is no mention whether their truphone app will work over 3G on jailbroken iPhones. Ironic that in 2007 truphone was the first to demonstrate VoIP over WiFi on an Apple iPhone that they jailbreaked.
Of course, you could use Truphone Anywhere for free calls, but that uses the 3G voice channel not 3G data. It leverages a callback system that uses your bucket of cell minutes for ‘relatively’ free calling.
In any case, check out the news.
Tags: 3g, apple, google talk, iphone, ipod touch, skype, wifi
Related tags: apple iphone, jailbroken iphones, truphone, apple, calls, iphone
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iPhone, Web Offer Lonely Planet A New Life
It is fashionable for media companies to paint themselves as victims of an increasingly Google-dominated planet. Desperate publishers are happy to collude or play ball with anyone who offers them a straw. Instead, they should be looking at various opportunities offered by technology to find a brighter future.
To learn a trick or two, they should […]
In Music, Apple’s Strength Becomes a Vulnerability
One of Apple’s great successes this decade has been its ability to unite the cell phone, the portable MP3 player and the music store in one ingenious handheld device, the iPhone. As new applications arise that allow on-demand streaming music on non-Apple phones such as those powered by Google’s Android operating system, however, Apple’s great […]
A Few Fun Facts About Location-Based Services
Compete, the web research company, has come up with some interesting findings about location-based services and their use among smartphone users. According to a survey of 1,000 such people:
1 in 3 currently use a LBS at least once a month.
Smartphone owners who use LBS are likely to spend more each month on their total wireless […]
Mobile Data Growth Boosting Backhaul Demand
Thanks to the emergence of superphones like the iPhone, the BlackBerry Bold and the T-Mobile G-1, we have seen a steady increase in the demand for mobile data services. The easy availability of popular web services such as Facebook and Google Mail on higher-end feature phones has only helped boost the demand for mobile […]
Incoming! for Skype on the Apple iPhone
A new Skype for the Apple iPhone app was just approved and is available in the iTunes app store called Incoming! for Skype. Basically, it makes every call an incoming call so you can save your minutes on your wireless dialplan, since they often feature unlimited inbound minutes and only charge for outbound minute usage.
Here’s how it works:
1. Open the Incoming! App on your iPhone
2. Dial the phone number, choose from Favorites, choose from address book or conference call
3. Press call and it will re-route the call through the Skype helper app on your home computer.
4. Your phone then rings, you pick it up and then the other person is called.
Using this app you can connect to any landline or mobile phone over Edge, 3G, and WiFi - unlike the ‘official’ Skype for iPhone app, which is WiFi restricted - unless you jailbreak your iPhone for 3G support of course! Basically the calls are routed through your home PC’s Skype software. You will use SkypeOut credits for PSTN calls. But if you’ve already signed up for one of Skype’s unlimited call plans (U.S./Canada $2.95/month), the call is essentially free. Another benefit is that you get some of the Skype features in this application. For instance, you can do 9-way conference calling on your iPhone, making business meetings while on the go a snap! Essentially, the app is harnessing the power of your PC for the audio mixing. (Note: I don’t believe the free ‘official’ Skype for iPhone app can do 9-way conferencing)
Features include a visual favorites list, address book and support for both Windows and the Mac. An iPod touch will work as well, but you can’t route calls to it, but you can route it to a nearby phone.
The app will cost you $4.99 on the iTunes store, which is pricier than most iPhone apps.
You can check it out here
Tags: apple, gadget, Incoming! for Skype, iphone, skypeout
Related tags: official skype, apple iphone, skype apple, skype iphone, incoming skype, skype
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Sprint Sets June 6 for Palm Pre Launch
Sprint will start selling the much-awaited Palm Pre on June 6, the embattled carrier said today. The phone, which onlookers expect could determine Sprint’s fate, will cost $199.99 after a $100 rebate. Best Buy, RadioShack and certain Wal-Mart stores will sell the Pre, along with Sprint’s online store. Buyers will also need to purchase an Everything […]
AT&T Expands Cloud Services Into Data Storage
AT&T unveiled today the cloud-based Synaptic Storage as a Service, a solution to what it called the “staggering” demand for web-based enterprise data storage. The Dallas company is teaming with EMC Corp. to provide limited service starting this month, with wider availability in the third quarter.
AT&T is not the only telco making a […]
Build Your Own Verizon iPhone This Sunday
Are you one of those poor souls who kind of want an iPhone, but just can’t bear the thought of the AT&T network? If so, I’m thinking that if you combine an iPod Touch with the upcoming Verizon MiFi modem, add a VoIP client and a microphone, then you can make a bastardized iPhone that […]
Another Way the iPhone Is Hurting Rival Phone Makers
From the April 2009 issue of Rutberg & Co.’s Wireless Industry Newsletter:
An under-discussed dynamic with the iPhone has been the impact to carrier subsidy budgets for non-iPhone handsets. In our conversations with handset OEM and carrier executives, we hear that subsidy budgets for those carriers carrying the iPhone are now disproportionately allocated to […]
3G Sidekick LX to Debut With Twitter, Facebook Support
Apple’s iPhone and RIM’s BlackBerry might have all the developer attention, but there are still a lot of people who love their Sidekicks. T-Mobile is going to introduce their new Sidekick LX on May 13. I like what this device has to offer: It integrates Facebook, MySpace and Twitter. This is a smart move, for […]
3G Sidekick LX to Debut With Twitter, Facebook Support
Apple’s iPhone and RIM’s BlackBerry might have all the developer attention, but there are still a lot of people who love their Sidekicks. T-Mobile is going to introduce their new Sidekick LX on May 13. I like what this device has to offer: It integrates Facebook, MySpace and Twitter. This is a smart move, for […]
The iPhone Will Not Destroy the Wireless Business
The Wall Street Journal today notes how the iPhone, which makes it easier for consumers to access data-intensive applications such as video, results in users consuming a lot more bandwidth than they would for texting and email. The carriers know this, which is why they’re investing in next-generation networks that will enable more data to travel more cheaply through their pipes, while at the same time offering plans and phones aimed at luring customers away from other carriers.
The iPhone Will Not Destroy the Wireless Business
The Wall Street Journal today notes how the iPhone, which makes it easier for consumers to access data-intensive applications such as video, results in users consuming a lot more bandwidth than they would for texting and email. The carriers know this, which is why they’re investing in next-generation networks that will enable more data to travel more cheaply through their pipes, while at the same time offering plans and phones aimed at luring customers away from other carriers.
The iPhone Will Not Destroy the Wireless Business
The Wall Street Journal today notes how the iPhone, which makes it easier for consumers to access data-intensive applications such as video, results in users consuming a lot more bandwidth than they would for texting and email. The carriers know this, which is why they’re investing in next-generation networks that will enable more data to travel more cheaply through their pipes, while at the same time offering plans and phones aimed at luring customers away from other carriers.
The iPhone Will Not Destroy the Wireless Business
The Wall Street Journal today notes how the iPhone, which makes it easier for consumers to access data-intensive applications such as video, results in users consuming a lot more bandwidth than they would for texting and email. The carriers know this, which is why they’re investing in next-generation networks that will enable more data to travel more cheaply through their pipes, while at the same time offering plans and phones aimed at luring customers away from other carriers.
The iPhone Will Not Destroy the Wireless Business
The Wall Street Journal today notes how the iPhone, which makes it easier for consumers to access data-intensive applications such as video, results in users consuming a lot more bandwidth than they would for texting and email. The carriers know this, which is why they’re investing in next-generation networks that will enable more data to travel more cheaply through their pipes, while at the same time offering plans and phones aimed at luring customers away from other carriers.
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