It looks like the Skype client’s ability to make calls over 3G may have to wait until Apple releases iPhone OS 3.2.
The LA Times is reporting on a conversation with an Apple spokesperson who confirmed the recent VOIP over 3G developments in the new iPhone OS 3.2 beta SDK licensing agreement.
“We revised our Program License Agreement in conjunction with our updated Software Development Kit for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad Apps,” wrote an Apple spokesperson. “Included in this update is the ability for developers to create VoIP apps that utilize cellular networks.” -LA Times
The reason why Skype has not yet updated their client to allow this functionality is because their current app and current iPhone users are still under the licensing terms of the 3.1.2 version of the iPhone OS. This version, which is currently running on most devices, forbids the use of VOIP applications over 3G, instead restricting them to WiFi-only. Skype spokesperson Chaim Haas has said that Skype is waiting on Apple for clarification of this issue. “As soon as we have that clarification, Skype will submit its application for approval.”
What this likely means however is that we will have to wait until iPhone OS 3.2 is released so as to not be bound by the restrictions of version 3.1.2.
There seems to be a mad rush to enabling VOIP over 3G on the iPhone today. First, iCall announced VOIP over 3G, then Fring hopped on board, and everyone was waiting for Skype to join in. The discussion even hit slashdot, and people started testing it out.
Well, according to at least one slashdotter, Skype works over 3G without issue now too.
I just tried skype on my iPhone…went through on 3g with no problems
If nothing else, this at least means cheap long distance on the iPhone, and possibly quite a bit of free talk as well if the calls are skype-to-skype. Some reports are that VOIP over 3G is of spotty quality. Any users care to chime in?
edit: it seems the skype client still doesn’t work, but you can use Fring to call out over 3G using skype-out
Well folks, a day we have all been waiting a long time for has finally come. The new version of the iPhone SDK released today for use with the iPad has removed the longstanding restriction preventing VOIP traffic over 3G. This means you can talk over your data plan for very cheap and not use your expensive voice minutes!
Engadget was alerted to the development by iCall, maker of an app which could take an incoming GSM call and flip it over to wifi/VOIP.
3G Skype coming to the iPhone?
They added the following interesting comment:
Interestingly, iCall says its 3G-friendly VoIP app is available now, and is the first and only such app in the App Store — which seems like some pretty quick turnaround on everyone’s part, but apparently the 3G restriction wasn’t anything to do with the software itself, but instead a server-side block. We just tested this out and it totally works, and while we’ll be looking for more verification that the ban has indeed been lifted, it sounds like it’s time for some cheaply connected international parties in the streets.
Parties in the streets indeed. Can anyone else confirm this?
As noted previously, Skype has a 3G capable version of their app ready and waiting for this restriction to be lifted. Considering the quick turnaround on iCall’s part, it can’t be long before Skype and others follow suit.
Earlier, I wrote a reaction piece to Apple’s announcement of the iPad. My reaction seemed to parallel many of the opinions out there: It does a few new things in kind of cool ways, but it’s not the revolutionary gizmo Steve Jobs made it out to be.
With this article I’d like to add more of a Canadian reaction to the iPad from the point of view of the mobile communications industry.
Yes, the iPad 3G is coming to Canada, reportedly in June. Expect a slight USD -> CAD markup on the device and more expensive data rates. Also, the iPad won’t be coming to all Canadian carriers.
Today, Apple officially announced it’s new device – the iPad. The hands-on reviews have yet to come in, but will undoubtedly be on any number of sites soon.
What does the iPad mean to Canadian consumers, what is it good for, and what are the communication implications? This article will be divided into two parts: First, a commentary on the iPad itself – my own personal reaction. Second, I will analyze its position in the Canadian wireless industry. (Updated: Wireless commentary here)
