AT&T now allows VoIP calls to be made on the iPhone over 3G

Justin Cauchon
Smartphone Nation
Published in
2 min readOct 6, 2009
skype-iphone

iPhone customer have long wondered why AT&T would not allow VoIP calls to be made over the 3G network. In the past, these calls needed to be made over a Wi-Fi connection. This was a reason why many people jailbroke their iPhones to allow them to use VoIP apps over 3G. However, today AT&T began allowing these calls to be made over 3G. Gone are the days of looking for a Wi-Fi connection to make a Skype call! It only makes sense for them to do this because many other devices can use VoIP applications on the 3G network. Check out the full press release below.

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.

--

--

Justin Cauchon
Smartphone Nation

Living in Mountain View, CA. Boston-raised. Product Manager.