AT&T to Allow Internet Calling on iPhone Over 3G Network

Strategic Insights -

AT&T Inc. announced that it will enable iPhone owners to use internet calling services on its wireless network, a move that comes after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) sent letters to AT&T, Apple, and Google asking why the Google Voice messaging and calling application has not been approved for use on the iPhone. This decision is part of the FCC's inquiry into competition in the wireless industry and its review of net neutrality rules, which would prohibit broadband providers from favoring or discriminating against certain types of internet traffic. The move is seen as a positive step towards greater consumer choice and investment in the mobile marketplace.

Key Takeaways:

  • AT&T will allow iPhone owners to use internet calling services on its wireless network.
  • The decision comes after the FCC sent letters to AT&T, Apple, and Google asking why the Google Voice application has not been approved for use on the iPhone.
  • This move is part of the FCC's inquiry into competition in the wireless industry and its review of net neutrality rules.
  • The FCC wants to impose net neutrality rules to ensure that broadband providers don't abuse their power over internet access.
  • AT&T's decision has been praised by FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski and Josh Silverman, president of Skype.
  • AT&T has informed Apple and the FCC that it has taken the necessary steps to enable Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services on the iPhone over its 3G network.

Statistics:

  • 2 months: The time frame in which AT&T announced the decision to enable internet calling on its wireless network.
  • 3G: The network type that will allow iPhone users to make internet calls.
  • 2009: The year in which the FCC sent letters to AT&T, Apple, and Google asking about the Google Voice application.
  • Millions: The number of mobile Skypers who will benefit from this decision, according to Josh Silverman.

Sources:

  • Tessler, J. (2009). AT&T to allow iPhone to use Internet calling services over 3G network. Associated Press.
  • FCC (2009). Letters to AT&T, Apple, and Google about Google Voice application.
  • The Daily Star (2009). AT&T to allow iPhone to use Internet calling services over 3G network.