IP Drum today launches IP Voicelink, a palm-sized gateway that enables users to connect to the Skype web telephony service via their existing mobile phone. The vendor says this brings all the convenience and low cost of internet calling to mobile handsets, without the need for an expensive upgrade. This is particularly useful when travelling overseas to avoid the huge roaming costs imposed on UK mobile phone users.
Calling out, end users can choose a contact from mobile contact lists and call for free via Skype on the internet, or pay the SkypeOut charge and make international calls at local rates.
IP Voicelink uses its home connection to access the web and relays calls via its own SIM card, meaning there is no need to be in a wireless internet zone to access Skype on the mobile. This is a huge advantage over web-enabled handsets as IP Voicelink users can access web calling, also known as VoIP, at any time and anywhere rather than having to be stationary in a Wi-Fi hotspot.
IP Drum says IP Voicelink is compatible with all mobiles, meaning that users are not restricted by their current mobile network or handset manufacturer. Its plug and play set up means that all end users have to do is download the software provided, install the IP Voicelink via the USB key, download the Skype web telephony service on the desktop and get dialling.