by Joe Taylor Jr.
Over the past few years, VoIP services have revolutionized call centers and large offices. VoIP providers have even made inroads to the consumer market through the "triple play" promotional efforts of cable companies and traditional telcos. Thanks to popular demand and unprecedented wireless bandwidth, VoIP is making its debut in a number of markets without the tether of broadband landlines.
On the surface, it may be counterintuitive to think about incorporating wireless VoIP into a business phone system. After all, wireless digital phone coverage is already ubiquitous and relatively inexpensive. However, international wireless calling plans, even for business accounts, can put a major dent in a company's budget.
WiMAX Brings Wireless VoIP Service to Major MarketsAlthough service providers argue over the names they're using to promote a variety of standards and platforms, advanced wireless networks are emerging in many major cities. Designed to handle massive amounts of voice and data traffic, these networks also have the potential to streamline phone systems for business customers.
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WiMAX refers to a new generation of wireless Internet technology that can spread powerful Wi-Fi signals over large areas. In cities blanketed with WiMAX coverage, VoIP handsets can effectively replace traditional wireless phones. Therefore, phone systems that already use advanced handsets can actually work independently of landline broadband networks.
VoIP Providers Extend Service to Wireless, Mobile HandsetsThis development can impact companies by freeing their communications systems from costly installations. Moving offices and adding users becomes as simple as adding an additional wireless handset. Communicating with colleague across town requires dialing the same interoffice extensions as if they were seated at their desks.
Depending on available bandwidth and personal settings, calls can potentially sound as clear as FM radio broadcasts. Best of all, companies that use VoIP services to reduce long distance calls can still connect with clients and contacts around the world using the same outbound call networks as they enjoy in the office.
Right now, WiMAX coverage exists in a handful of major metropolitan areas. However, many of the same companies that provide traditional wireless phone service have invested in deploying WiMAX networks. Over time, communications industry analysts expect to see phone companies using high speed data networks to complement their standard wireless phone systems.
Integrating VoIP into Existing Wireless Phone SystemsFor wireless phone users unable to connect to advanced networks, VoIP services can still cut international calling expenses. Google, Skype, Packetel, and a variety of VoIP providers offer a range of services that allow subscribers to make or receive global calls using regular wireless minutes.
Using smartphone applications or ringback services, VoIP providers can connect calls via local termination points in both countries. Both caller and receiver use local minutes to connect to a VoIP "slingshot" that completes the circuit. Thanks to modern codecs, packet buffering delays, echoes, and static are virtually undetectable on most calls.
Since many businesses are switching to VoIP providers for a variety of reasons, phone companies that offer blended services can appeal to cost-conscious customers. Gaining convenience without sacrificing quality, customers can expect more innovation from online telephony experts over the coming decade.
SourcesEngadget
Network World
WiMAX.com
WiMAXed
About the Author
Joe Taylor Jr. is an internal business consultant for a Fortune 500 company, who writes about finance, culture, and design. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Ithaca College.
