Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[FCC rules VoIP providers must report outages in effort to improve 911 service]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/17/fcc-rules-voip-providers-must-report-outages-in-effort-to-improv/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/17/fcc-rules-voip-providers-must-report-outages-in-effort-to-improv/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/17/fcc-rules-voip-providers-must-report-outages-in-effort-to-improv/#comments The FCC has many important things under its jurisdiction, and ensuring a functional 911 service is among the most critical. As such, telephony providers are required to report network outages, so the commission can monitor and maintain a resilient service. Until now, this hasn't included VoIP services, but a new ruling states that interconnected VoIP providers will have to declare outages that meet certain criteria. The move comes after the FCC's most recent Local Competition Report, which reveals that almost one-third of the 87 million residential telephone subscriptions are now provided as VoIP, and therefore carry emergency calls. While public safety is the main driver, the report also states it will "ensure critical communications infrastructure remains available in times of crisis." Check out the lengthy video after the break to see the meeting in its entirety.

Continue reading FCC rules VoIP providers must report outages in effort to improve 911 service

FCC rules VoIP providers must report outages in effort to improve 911 service originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911911 service911Serviceemergencyemergency responderemergency respondersemergency responseemergency serviceEmergencyResponderEmergencyRespondersEmergencyResponseEmergencyServiceFCCfederal communications commissionFederalCommunicationsCommissionminipostrulingvoipVoIP providersVoipProvidersFri, 17 Feb 2012 10:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Dell Voice offers VoIP, but only to Canadians]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/dell-voice-offers-voip-but-only-to-canadians/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/dell-voice-offers-voip-but-only-to-canadians/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/dell-voice-offers-voip-but-only-to-canadians/#comments Dell's teamed up with Fongo to offer Dell Voice, a VoIP app that's available exclusively in Canada. It's currently available for Android, iOS and Windows (Desktop), enabling everyone to shoot the breeze about Dustin Penner without charges. You'll get a local phone number that'll let you call all the big cities (and most of the smaller ones), caller ID, voice-mail, 911 service and long-distance calling for no additional charge. Call credit costs 2c per minute, with each call averaging out to 1MB of data. Canadians clutching to their BlackBerries will be relieved to know that the app will roll out on RIM's handsets next month.

[Thanks, Steven]

Continue reading Dell Voice offers VoIP, but only to Canadians

Dell Voice offers VoIP, but only to Canadians originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidCanadaCanadiansDellDell VoiceDellVoiceFongoiOSmobilepostcrossVoIPWindowsThu, 09 Feb 2012 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Skype for Mac Beta update adds revamped call UI, incoming video calls]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/skype-for-mac-beta-update-adds-revamped-call-ui-incoming-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/skype-for-mac-beta-update-adds-revamped-call-ui-incoming-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/skype-for-mac-beta-update-adds-revamped-call-ui-incoming-video/#comments
Skype's Mac Beta software was anointed with another update this morning, adding an "improved" user interface and new voice call support. With version 5.5, users will be able to accept incoming calls with or without video, while taking advantage of the program's streamlined layout, which has apparently made it easier for them to mute, transmit videos, share screens and add others on to their calls. Skype is currently asking for feedback on the new build, so if you wanna give it a spin for yourself, check out the source link below.

Continue reading Skype for Mac Beta update adds revamped call UI, incoming video calls

Skype for Mac Beta update adds revamped call UI, incoming video calls originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 13:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applebetabeta 5.5Beta5.5callmacminipostskypeskype for macskype mac betaSkypeForMacSkypeMacBetasoftwarevideovideo callVideoCallvoipFri, 13 Jan 2012 13:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Ooma's new HD2 VoIP handset unveiled at CES]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/ooma-hd2-handset-ces/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/ooma-hd2-handset-ces/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/ooma-hd2-handset-ces/#comments VoIP company Ooma's releasing a revamped handset for its offerings that's attempting to bring some interesting new features to the least loved of your domestic appliances: your home phone. You'll recognize the feature set from your smartphone: sync your Facebook account and your contact's avatars will show up on the two-inch color screen when they call. Subscribers to Ooma's premium service ($10 a month) will get even more out of the new handset, being able to forward calls, provide an instant second line, control conferencing options and get free calls to users of the company's new Canadian service. The HD2 runs on two rechargeable AA batteries which can be juiced from the dock and will set you back $60 when it journeys toward the retail world in March.

Gallery: Ooma HD2 Handset Hands-On At CES 2012

Ooma HD2 Handset Hands-On at CES 2012

Dana Murph contributed to this report.

Ooma's new HD2 VoIP handset unveiled at CES originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CESCES 2012Ces2012OomaOoma HD2OomaHd2VoIPMon, 09 Jan 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Skype and Tely Labs deliver Tegra 2-powered Android videochat to your HDTV]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/skype-and-tely-labs-deliver-tegra-2-powered-android-videochat-to/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/skype-and-tely-labs-deliver-tegra-2-powered-android-videochat-to/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/skype-and-tely-labs-deliver-tegra-2-powered-android-videochat-to/#comments TelyHD TV Phone Video calling is leaving the PC behind and increasingly looking for a home in people's living rooms. Tely Labs is just the latest company to hop on that trend, but it's scored a powerful partner in Skype. The TelyHD TV Phone system doesn't look too dissimilar from a Kinect, but underneath its glossy plastic shell is an HD webcam and a Tegra 2 pushing a customized version of Android. The company promises other apps are in the works, but the star of the show is clearly Skype, which hopes to deliver HD-quality video calls wherever there's a TV (or a phone, or a computer). The TelyHD is available now for $250, check out the complete PR after the break.

Continue reading Skype and Tely Labs deliver Tegra 2-powered Android videochat to your HDTV

Skype and Tely Labs deliver Tegra 2-powered Android videochat to your HDTV originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 10:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012Ces2012hdpostcrossskypetely labstelyhdtelyhd tv phoneTelyhdTvPhoneTelyLabsvideo callsvideo chatvideo conferencingVideoCallsVideoChatVideoConferencingvoipThu, 05 Jan 2012 10:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Skype gifts NYC with NYE WiFi, so you can miss the ball drop while Skyping the ball drop]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/31/skype-gifts-nyc-with-nye-wifi-so-you-can-miss-the-ball-drop-whi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/31/skype-gifts-nyc-with-nye-wifi-so-you-can-miss-the-ball-drop-whi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/31/skype-gifts-nyc-with-nye-wifi-so-you-can-miss-the-ball-drop-whi/#comments Those kind folk at Skype already served up plenty of glorious WiFi waves across US airports this Christmas, and now it's New York City's turn. From noon on the 31st until January 1st, if you spy a "Skype WiFi" network, those tasty bytes are yours for the taking. The VoIP don has teamed up with WiFi provider Towerstream for the give-away, and recommends you load-up on the latest version of its famous software to make sure you don't miss out. If you pack an iDevice, then it's the Skype WiFi app you'll be wanting updated in the lead up to midnight. Just make sure you don't miss that kiss, just for a festive freebie.

Skype gifts NYC with NYE WiFi, so you can miss the ball drop while Skyping the ball drop originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 31 Dec 2011 12:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freeinternetnew yearsnew yorkNewYearsNewYorknycnyeskypeTowerstreamvoipwifiSat, 31 Dec 2011 12:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Lync arrives on Windows Phone and Android, other mobile OSs still waiting in the queue]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/15/microsoft-lync-arrives-on-windows-phone-and-android-other-mobil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/15/microsoft-lync-arrives-on-windows-phone-and-android-other-mobil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/15/microsoft-lync-arrives-on-windows-phone-and-android-other-mobil/#comments

Microsoft can't release apps quick enough. Bolstering the cross-platform likes of SkyDrive, OneNote and Kinectimals, its Lync app is the latest addition to the app roster. The corporate communication app ties together instant messaging, audio conferencing and VoIP calls on both Windows Phone and Android devices, while the Symbian and iOS versions are still being vetted for approval. According to the official blog, the app will offer a similar experience across platforms, which makes sense for the enterprise-centric Lync -- and an increasingly fractured business phone market. Suits can grab both the Android and WinPho flavors below.

Update: The iPhone version is now also up for grabs.

[Thanks James]

Microsoft Lync arrives on Windows Phone and Android, other mobile OSs still waiting in the queue originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappappsaustraliablackberrycorporateenterpriseGoogleiminstant messaginginstant messengerInstantMessagingInstantMessengerioslyncmicrosoftmicrosoft lyncMicrosoftLyncmobilepostminisoftwaresymbianvideovoipwindows phoneWindowsPhoneThu, 15 Dec 2011 08:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Google gives the gift of gab, extends free domestic calling in Gmail]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/14/google-gives-the-gift-of-gab-extends-free-domestic-calling-in-g/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/14/google-gives-the-gift-of-gab-extends-free-domestic-calling-in-g/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/14/google-gives-the-gift-of-gab-extends-free-domestic-calling-in-g/#comments
Just in time to thank Grandma for that polyester blend sweater, comes more free domestic calling in Gmail for the US and Canada. In the spirit of holiday giving, Mountain View has decided to extend its gratis VoIP program for another year of free chatter. Of course, we're not sure if the holiday cheer will last forever, which may once again give us a valid excuse to avoid Uncle Lester's calls.

Google gives the gift of gab, extends free domestic calling in Gmail originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>callingCanadadomesticgmailgoogleUSvoice over IPVoiceOverIpvoipvoip callingVoipCallingWed, 14 Dec 2011 00:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Skype for Android adds support for sharing photos, video and other files]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/skype-for-android-adds-support-for-sharing-photos-video-and-oth/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/skype-for-android-adds-support-for-sharing-photos-video-and-oth/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/skype-for-android-adds-support-for-sharing-photos-video-and-oth/#comments Skype 2.6 for Android Just in time to really annoy your family and friends with holiday greetings, Skype for Android has updated to version 2.6, bringing with it support for sharing photos, videos and other files with your contacts. Being able to quickly transfer pics of your gifts and clips of children tearing into meticulously wrapped presents to people on your buddy list is just the most notable change to the VoIP client. Plenty of other tweaks have taken place, even if they're primarily under the hood. For one, video quality has improved specifically on devices running NVIDIA's Tegra 2. A bunch more phones have also been added to the app's whitelist, including Motorola's latest super-phones the Droid RAZR and Droid 4. You can head on over to the Android Market now to get the latest Skype update.

Skype for Android adds support for sharing photos, video and other files originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid marketAndroidMarketappappschatdroid 4droid razrDroid4DroidRazrfile sharingFileSharingmobilepostcrossphoto sharingPhotoSharingskypeskype 2.6Skype2.6video sharingVideoSharingvoipTue, 13 Dec 2011 14:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Biscotti TV Phone goes on sale today for $199, assumes everyone you know uses Google Talk]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/biscotti-tv-phone-goes-on-sale-today-for-199-assumes-everyone/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/biscotti-tv-phone-goes-on-sale-today-for-199-assumes-everyone/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/biscotti-tv-phone-goes-on-sale-today-for-199-assumes-everyone/#comments Feel the need to video chat in higher resolution? Or maybe just take a break from the PC while you talk to your long-distance girlfriend you met at Comic Con? Well, we just got word that Biscotti, that TV phone we demoed last week, is on sale in the US and Canada for a princely $199. To recap, it's a camera that sits discreetly atop your TV and is, indeed, about as small and lightweight as that crunchy Italian cookie. The idea is pretty simple: it plugs into both your TV and set-top box, and makes free calls to other Biscotti owners, along with anyone using Google Talk. After our brief demo we were impressed enough with the easy setup and simple menus that layer on top of whatever you're watching, but then again, we were unaware of the price. So, is two hundred bucks worth a lifetime of seeing grandma in 1080p? That, friends, is a decision you'll have to make for yourself.

Gallery: Biscotti TV Phone

Continue reading Biscotti TV Phone goes on sale today for $199, assumes everyone you know uses Google Talk

Biscotti TV Phone goes on sale today for $199, assumes everyone you know uses Google Talk originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Biscottibiscotti tv phoneBiscottiTvPhoneGoogle TalkGoogleTalkhdpostcrosstv phoneTvPhonevideo callvideo callingvideo callsvideo chatVideoCallVideoCallingVideoCallsVideoChatvoipwebcamwebcamsTue, 15 Nov 2011 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Republic Wireless is only kinda, sorta unlimited, may ask you to take your business elsewhere (updated)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/republic-wireless-is-only-kinda-sorta-unlimited-may-ask-you-to/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/republic-wireless-is-only-kinda-sorta-unlimited-may-ask-you-to/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/republic-wireless-is-only-kinda-sorta-unlimited-may-ask-you-to/#comments Republic Wireless Republic Wireless certainly garnered itself a lot of attention with the promise of unlimited everything for only $19 a month and no contract. The company keeps the price so low by using what it calls "hybrid calling" -- a fancy way of saying it relies almost entirely on WiFi and VoIP, only falling back on Sprint frequencies when you wander away from an 802.11 connection. The service may be billed as all-you-can-eat, the reality is a little more complex. While you're free to plow through as much data and as many minutes as you want over WiFi, there are "fair usage" limitations on your cellular footprint. Specifically, if you cross a threshold of 550 minutes, 150 text messages or 300MB of data you may be asked to take your business elsewhere -- not exactly "unlimited" now is it.

Update: Republic Wireless issued a clarification on its Facebook page, explaining that you can in fact go over the 550 minute "example" above.

"People of the republic, we'd just like to clarify that 550 minutes, 150 texts, and 300 MB of data over 3G is just an example, not a limit. The more you offload to Wi-Fi, the more you can use. It's truly unlimited. We do have fair use guidelines and we encourage you to use Wi-Fi whenever possible."

Republic Wireless is only kinda, sorta unlimited, may ask you to take your business elsewhere (updated) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>catchfine printFinePrinthybrid callingHybridCallinglimitationslimitedmobilepostminirepublic wirelessRepublicWirelesssprintunlimitedvoipwifiwifi callingWifiCallingFri, 11 Nov 2011 11:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Tango video calling app prances its way into Windows Phone Marketplace]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/tango-video-calling-app-prances-its-way-into-windows-phone-marke/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/tango-video-calling-app-prances-its-way-into-windows-phone-marke/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/tango-video-calling-app-prances-its-way-into-windows-phone-marke/#comments
We were expecting to see Tango pop up for Windows Phone users this week and, sure enough, here it is. The video calling service finally hit the Marketplace today, more than a year after launching on iOS and Android, and barely a month after expanding to PCs. Compatible with Windows Phone 7.5 or higher, Tango for Mango allows users to make free phone and video calls over 3G, 4G and WiFi connections, including free international calls to fellow Tangonians. Users can also chat with Tango members across other operating systems and platforms, which should help tide them over until that Skype integration becomes a reality. Loquacious legions can download the app now, from the source link below.

Tango video calling app prances its way into Windows Phone Marketplace originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 07:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplicationmangomicrosofttangovideo chatVideoChatvoipwindows phonewindows phone 7.5windows phone mangowindows phone marketplaceWindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7.5WindowsPhoneMangoWindowsPhoneMarketplacewpwp 7.5Wp7.5Wed, 09 Nov 2011 07:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Biscotti TV phone hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/biscotti-tv-phone-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/biscotti-tv-phone-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/biscotti-tv-phone-hands-on/#comments Biscotti The tiny Biscotti TV phone would be pretty easy to miss in most home theater setups. It is, in fact, roughly the shape and size of its namesake Italian cookie. Honestly, it'd be pretty easy to miss even if you were holding it -- the video calling TV attachment probably weighs less than its baked good doppelganger. The idea is to stick this sliver of glossy black plastic on top of your TV and make video VoIP calls using its integrated HD webcam and 802.11n radio. Your counterpart is then displayed, super-sized, on your big screen. Around the back of the device are the three ports: HDMI in, HDMI out and power. You simply plug the Biscotti in between your settop and TV, then navigate the menus with the included remote. The demo stream set up at the CES Unveiled event had a slightly yellow hue to it, but we're willing to chalk that up to the poor lighting on the show floor. The best news, though? In addition to making calls through the proprietary Biscotti service you can get your video chat on using the increasingly ubiquitous Google Talk. Check out the gallery below and a quick video walk through after the break.

Gallery: Biscotti hands-on

Continue reading Biscotti TV phone hands-on

Biscotti TV phone hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 20:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biscottibiscotti tv phoneBiscottiTvPhonegooglegoogle talkGoogleTalkhands-ontv phoneTvPhonevideovideo callvideo chatVideoCallVideoChatVOIPwebcamTue, 08 Nov 2011 20:58:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T Call International App gets Ma Bell into the mobile VoIP market]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/atandt-call-international-app-gets-ma-bell-into-the-mobile-voip-ma/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/atandt-call-international-app-gets-ma-bell-into-the-mobile-voip-ma/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/atandt-call-international-app-gets-ma-bell-into-the-mobile-voip-ma/#comments AT&T Call International AT&T is throwing its globe trotting customers something of a bone with its Call International App. The free VoIP service, created with help from 8x8, will allow customers to place international long-distance calls over WiFi for much less than they would have to pay under standard roaming plans. Calls to China, France, Germany and the UK are as little as $0.04 a minute when dialing a landline. The app is available for all versions of the iPhone and certain Android and BlackBerry handsets. You can see if your device is supported (and chances are it is -- even the ancient BlackBerry 5810 has been granted access to the party) at the more coverage link. And don't miss the PR after the break.

Continue reading AT&T Call International App gets Ma Bell into the mobile VoIP market

AT&T Call International App gets Ma Bell into the mobile VoIP market originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 14:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8x8androidappappsATTatt call internationalAttCallInternationalblackberryinternational roamingInternationalRoamingiosiphonelong distanceLongDistancemobilepostminiroamingvoipTue, 08 Nov 2011 14:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Republic Wireless goes live, brings unlimited data, text and calls to LG Optimus users]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/republic-wireless-goes-live-brings-unlimited-data-text-and-cal/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/republic-wireless-goes-live-brings-unlimited-data-text-and-cal/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/08/republic-wireless-goes-live-brings-unlimited-data-text-and-cal/#comments
Well, that didn't take too long. As promised, Republic Wireless flipped the switch on its new unlimited everything plan today, offering a smorgasbord of wireless talk, text and data for the flat fee of $19 per month. The trick, of course, is Republic's dependence upon the UMA wireless technology, also employed by T-Mobile. You won't have to open a dedicated app to use the service (currently in beta), though you will need a home connection speed of 80kbps both ways in order to actually hold a call. You'll also need a "Hybrid Calling"-enabled LG Optimus handset (bundled under the company's $199 startup fee), though the provider plans to add more devices in the near future. For more details, hit up the source link below.

Republic Wireless goes live, brings unlimited data, text and calls to LG Optimus users originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 03:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>callcarrierdatahandsetLG optimusLgOptimusmobilepostminiproviderrepublic wirelessRepublicWirelessservicetextunlimitedunlimited callsunlimited dataUnlimitedCallsUnlimitedDatavoipwifiTue, 08 Nov 2011 03:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Google might offer TV / phone service over its fiber network]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/04/google-might-offer-tv-phone-service-over-its-fiber-network/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/04/google-might-offer-tv-phone-service-over-its-fiber-network/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/04/google-might-offer-tv-phone-service-over-its-fiber-network/#comments Google has mentioned more than once that its Google TV platform isn't about replacing traditional pay-TV services, and now the Wall Street Journal reports it might be about to offer one of its own. Don't cancel your cable, satellite or IPTV service just yet though, as this would merely be an expansion of the fiber internet it will offer in the Kansas Cities, offering video and phone service as well. Reportedly it's looked into offering channels from the families of Disney, Time Warner and Discovery, but nothing is set in stone at this point. As CBS' attitude towards Apple TV makes clear, actually getting into the service biz can be complicated and costly, but we figure Mountain View has to fill those 1Gbps pipes with something other than Turquoise Jeep videos.

Google might offer TV / phone service over its fiber network originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 05:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cablechannelsfibergooglegoogle fibergoogle tvgoogle tv serviceGoogleFibergooglenetGoogleTvGoogleTvServicehdpostcrossiptvkansas cityKansasCitypay tvPayTvphonetvvoipFri, 04 Nov 2011 05:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Republic Wireless to offer unlimited calls, SMS and data for $19 per month]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/republic-wireless-to-offer-unlimited-calls-sms-and-data-for-19/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/republic-wireless-to-offer-unlimited-calls-sms-and-data-for-19/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/republic-wireless-to-offer-unlimited-calls-sms-and-data-for-19/#comments
Prepaid world, you're getting called out. Offering what appears to be the lowest unlimited everything plan we've seen thus far, Republic Wireless -- a division of Bandwidth.com -- is ready to roll out its game-changing service next Tuesday. The carrier will be doling out all-you-can-eat talk, text and data for $19 per month. We're still slim on the nitty gritty details, but we know the new network is so inexpensive because it plans to utilize hybrid Android devices that rely mainly on UMA (the same WiFi-calling tech employed by T-Mobile) and will drop back to cellular roaming on Sprint when you're not in range of a hotspot. The company's main site offers nothing more than a teaser for now, but promises that we'll know all of its secrets no later than November 8th. If you're pulling your hair out wanting to find out more, we guess the teaser was a success.

Continue reading Republic Wireless to offer unlimited calls, SMS and data for $19 per month

Republic Wireless to offer unlimited calls, SMS and data for $19 per month originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hotspotmobilepostminiprepaidrepublicrepublic wirelessRepublicWirelessroamingsprintumaunlimitedunlimited callsunlimited dataUnlimitedCallsUnlimitedDatavoipwifiwifi callingWifiCallingThu, 03 Nov 2011 04:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft has record Q1, rakes in $17.37 billion in revenue (updated: Skype plans revealed)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/20/microsoft-has-record-q1-rakes-in-17-37-billion-in-revenue/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/20/microsoft-has-record-q1-rakes-in-17-37-billion-in-revenue/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/20/microsoft-has-record-q1-rakes-in-17-37-billion-in-revenue/#comments Microsoft Q1 2012 earnings Q1 of 2012 (don't ask...) was good to Microsoft. Very good in fact. The company posted a record first quarter revenue of $17.37 billion, a 7-percent increase over the same period last year and slightly higher than the $17.26 billion that was expected. The big hero was Office which accounted for $5.62 billion of that income, though sales of Windows stayed flat and fell somewhat short of expectations. The company's $5.74 billion in net income was also a significant jump of 6-percent over the same time last year. For a few more of the financial particulars check out the earnings report after the break and the spartan spreadsheets at the source link.

Update: Wondering what Microsoft plans to do with the newly acquired Skype? Well, details are thin, but during today's earnings call the company revealed it did plan to integrate the VoIP service and its technologies into Lync, Live Messenger and Xbox Live. Soon you may not only have to listen to your friend gloat after every kill in Call of Duty, you might have to watch him do a celebratory dance in his Lazy Boy too.

Continue reading Microsoft has record Q1, rakes in $17.37 billion in revenue (updated: Skype plans revealed)

Microsoft has record Q1, rakes in $17.37 billion in revenue (updated: Skype plans revealed) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earningsfinanciallive messengerLiveMessengerlyncmicrosoftmicrosoft earningsmicrosoft lyncmicrosoft officeMicrosoftEarningsMicrosoftLyncMicrosoftOfficeq1 2012Q12012skypevoipwindowswindows live messengerWindowsLiveMessengerxbox liveXboxLiveThu, 20 Oct 2011 16:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft finalizes acquisition of Skype, Tony Bates shares his thoughts (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/microsoft-finalizes-acquisition-of-skype-tony-bates-shares-his/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/microsoft-finalizes-acquisition-of-skype-tony-bates-shares-his/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/microsoft-finalizes-acquisition-of-skype-tony-bates-shares-his/#comments
Well, it's finally happened -- Microsoft's acquisition of Skype has just been finalized, a little more than five months after it was first announced. Under the $8.5 billion deal, Skype CEO Tony Bates will be named president of the new Skype Division of Microsoft, and will have to report directly to Steve Ballmer. Many Skype employees, meanwhile, will stay onboard at offices around the globe, including at outposts in Estonia, the Czech Republic, Russia, Sweden, the UK, Luxembourg, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong and the US. In a post on the Official Microsoft Blog today, Bates seemed unsurprisingly enthusiastic about the acquisition, describing it as a marriage of two "disruptive, innovative, software-oriented companies." The exec was less specific about the role his company would play within Redmond's new architecture, but assured that Skype would be at the forefront of future communications initiatives across a variety of platforms. "Microsoft is committed to the ubiquity of the Skype experience - communication across every device and every platform will remain a primary focus," Bates wrote. "And we've only scratched the surface." Head past the break for Microsoft's full PR, as well as the video address from Bates.

Continue reading Microsoft finalizes acquisition of Skype, Tony Bates shares his thoughts (video)

Microsoft finalizes acquisition of Skype, Tony Bates shares his thoughts (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 02:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionballmerbatesbusinesscommunicationsdealfinalizeindustrymicrosoftmobilepostcrossmoneyMSMSFTredmondskypeskype microsoftSkypeMicrosoftsteve ballmerSteveBallmertony batesTonyBatesvideovoipFri, 14 Oct 2011 02:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Bobsled by T-Mobile's free VoIP magic now available via browser, Android or iOS]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/bobsled-by-t-mobiles-free-voip-magic-now-available-via-browser/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/bobsled-by-t-mobiles-free-voip-magic-now-available-via-browser/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/bobsled-by-t-mobiles-free-voip-magic-now-available-via-browser/#comments Initially, T-Mobile's Bobsled brand simply offered a way to VoIP call your Facebook friends for free but with that angle sufficiently covered, it has moved on to wider access. Starting today it supports dialing out to mobile and landline numbers in the US, Canada or Puerto Rico right from your desktop browser. Also new are free apps for Android and iOS devices, however those are still limited to calling your Facebook friends (and enemies.) Still not quite sure what all this newfangled internet telephone business is? Check out the video demo above and press release embedded after the break.

Continue reading Bobsled by T-Mobile's free VoIP magic now available via browser, Android or iOS

Bobsled by T-Mobile's free VoIP magic now available via browser, Android or iOS originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 01:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappapplebobsledbobsled by t-mobileBobsledByT-mobilebrowserfacebookiosmobilepostcrosst-mobilevideovoipTue, 11 Oct 2011 01:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Skype 2.5 for Android brings video calls to 14 new devices, including Honeycomb tablets]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/29/skype-2-5-for-android-brings-video-calls-to-14-new-devices-incl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/29/skype-2-5-for-android-brings-video-calls-to-14-new-devices-incl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/29/skype-2-5-for-android-brings-video-calls-to-14-new-devices-incl/#comments Skype Video Calling ...And then there were 41.

Oh, sorry, we're talking about Android devices here. Specifically ones that support video calling over Skype. With the update to version 2.5, the VoIP service has tacked on another 14 Goog-powered gadgets to its list of officially supported handsets and tablets. Yes, that's right, we said tablets. In addition to bringing support to phones like the Atrix, Bionic and Nexus One, Skype is inviting the Xoom, the Galaxy Tab 10.1 and Acer's Iconia to the party. We've even received reports that video calls are working on other Honeycomb slates like the ASUS Transformer. You'll find the full list of officially supported devices in the PR after the break.

Continue reading Skype 2.5 for Android brings video calls to 14 new devices, including Honeycomb tablets

Skype 2.5 for Android brings video calls to 14 new devices, including Honeycomb tablets originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 10:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acer iconiaAcerIconiaandroidandroid 3.0Android3.0atrixatrix 4gAtrix4gbionicgalaxy tab 10.1GalaxyTab10.1googlehoneycombiconiamotorola atrixmotorola atrix 4gmotorola bionicmotorola xoomMotorolaAtrixMotorolaAtrix4gMotorolaBionicMotorolaXoomnexus oneNexusOnesamsung nexus oneSamsungNexusOneskypeskype 2.5Skype2.5video callingVideoCallingvoipxoomThu, 29 Sep 2011 10:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Skype update for iOS adds anti-shake, Bluetooth connectivity and ads for freeloaders]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/skype-update-for-ios-adds-anti-shake-bluetooth-connectivity-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/skype-update-for-ios-adds-anti-shake-bluetooth-connectivity-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/skype-update-for-ios-adds-anti-shake-bluetooth-connectivity-and/#comments Skype's latest app upgrade brings a few substantial features, some good, one not so. Alongside a new anti-shake video call function (limited to the iPhone's back-facing camera), you can now pair Bluetooth headsets with the VoIP calling service, something apparently "long requested" from Skype fans. However, users have to fork out for credit to avoid seeing advertising that's also baked into the new version. The update's now up for grabs on both the iPhone and iPad, though there are reports of a few teething troubles, including missing credit and account details. We've also been experiencing issues, with the app unwilling to play nice with our Bluetooth headsets, though oddly, we can still hear the Skype call ring through. Hopefully we'll see another update that sorts this out soon -- till then, tap the link below for more details, or ogle a bit of smoothed out anti-shake action after the break.

Continue reading Skype update for iOS adds anti-shake, Bluetooth connectivity and ads for freeloaders

Skype update for iOS adds anti-shake, Bluetooth connectivity and ads for freeloaders originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 14:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-shakeappapp storeAppleAppStoreBluetoothbluetooth headsetbluetooth headsetsBluetoothHeadsetBluetoothHeadsetsiOSiPadiPhonemobilepostminiskypeskype appSkypeAppvideoVoIPWed, 28 Sep 2011 14:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Voice enters internal testing across Europe, international launch on the horizon?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/google-voice-enters-internal-testing-across-europe-internationa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/google-voice-enters-internal-testing-across-europe-internationa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/21/google-voice-enters-internal-testing-across-europe-internationa/#comments
Lather up your vocal cords, Europe, because it looks like Google Voice is on its way over. That's according to the company's European Director of Business Development, Jens Redmer, who told The Next Web yesterday that Google is taking "concrete action" to expand the service to the Old World. Redmer later confirmed that he's currently conducting internal tests with Voice, adding that its voicemail transcription feature has performed particularly well within Europe. He stopped short, however, of offering a precise launch date, saying only that the service's release would hinge upon legal and regulatory issues, rather than any technical obstacles. Now that the train has rolled into the testing phase, though, it may only be a matter of time before it arrives at the station.

Google Voice enters internal testing across Europe, international launch on the horizon? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 04:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>calleuropegooglegoogle voiceGoogleVoiceinternal testingInternalTestingjens redmerJensRedmerlegalmobilepostcrossmountain viewMountainViewphoneregulatorytestvoicevoicemail transcriptionVoicemailTranscriptionvoipWed, 21 Sep 2011 04:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Skype 5.4 beta hits Mac with added Facebook integration]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/15/skype-5-4-beta-hits-mac-with-added-facebook-integration/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/15/skype-5-4-beta-hits-mac-with-added-facebook-integration/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/15/skype-5-4-beta-hits-mac-with-added-facebook-integration/#comments Skype brought deeper Facebook integration to its Windows application with version 5.5 this summer, and it's now seen fit to bring the same functionality to Mac users with the beta version of Skype 5.4. As with Skype for Windows, that will let you do things like chat with your Facebook friends, read and update your news feed, and even "Like" posts -- all from right in Skype. What it doesn't bring, however, are any significant changes to the still-controversial UI, which we're guessing will be enough to keep some folks on version 2.8.

Skype 5.4 beta hits Mac with added Facebook integration originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookmacminipostskypeskype 5.4skype 5.4 macskype for macSkype5.4Skype5.4MacSkypeForMacvoipThu, 15 Sep 2011 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Ooma Telo and Telo Air wireless adapter hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/ooma-telo-and-telo-air-wireless-adapter-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/ooma-telo-and-telo-air-wireless-adapter-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/ooma-telo-and-telo-air-wireless-adapter-hands-on/#comments Remember the Ooma Telo? It suffered the same fate as most home VoIP adapters: a lifetime chained to the home or office router, bound forever by a freedom-crushing Ethernet cable. But no. No more. The benevolent engineers at Ooma have decided to set the Telo free. Hello, Ooma Telo Air Wireless Adapter -- you're about to put VoIP in our kitchen.

Ooma's Voice over IP service and the Telo adapter itself are hardly new, but we couldn't resist giving the outfit's new VOIP liberating dongle a try. Read on for more.

Gallery: Ooma Telos and Telos Air wireless adapter: hands-on

Continue reading Ooma Telo and Telo Air wireless adapter hands-on

Ooma Telo and Telo Air wireless adapter hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesdongleshands-onoomaooma teloooma telo airOomaTeloOomaTeloAirvoice over internet protocolvoice over ipVoiceOverInternetProtocolVoiceOverIpvoipwifiwifi adapterwifi dongleWifiAdapterWifiDonglewirelessWed, 14 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ooma intros Telo Air wireless adapter, liberates Bluetooth solution to the masses]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/ooma-intros-telo-air-wireless-adapter-liberates-its-bluetooth-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/ooma-intros-telo-air-wireless-adapter-liberates-its-bluetooth-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/ooma-intros-telo-air-wireless-adapter-liberates-its-bluetooth-s/#comments Heads up, Ooma fans: the equipment that you know and love for free local and long distance calls is now more flexible than ever, thanks to the Telo Air wireless adapter, which adds WiFi capabilities to the Ooma Telo. While the system previously relied on an Ethernet connection for quality calls, the adaptive redundancy of this $50 add-on is said to overcome any performance degradation that you might otherwise experience. Additionally, the Bluetooth adapter -- once available only to Premiere subscribers -- is now available for $30 to anyone who wishes to integrate their mobile phone or wireless headset with Ooma. Of course, you'll need to remain within 30 feet of the Telo (due to Bluetooth's technical limitation), but if you're undeterred by the short leash, it could be a fine alternative to the company's handset. The Bluetooth adapter is available today, and the Telo Air is expected to ship on October 1st. If you're looking to ditch the local telco and save some coin, you'll find the full PR after the break.

Continue reading Ooma intros Telo Air wireless adapter, liberates Bluetooth solution to the masses

Ooma intros Telo Air wireless adapter, liberates Bluetooth solution to the masses originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothmobilepostcrossoomaooma teloooma telo airOomaTeloOomaTeloAirvoipwifiWed, 14 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vonage launches Android app for free international calling, still no service to Brodo Asogi]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/vonage-launches-android-app-for-free-international-calling-stil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/vonage-launches-android-app-for-free-international-calling-stil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/vonage-launches-android-app-for-free-international-calling-stil/#comments Just in time for Tante Lulu's birthday in Gstaad, Vonage launched its Extensions app for free long-distance calling from your Android phone. With a quick download, homesick relatives can tap into their existing Vonage VoIP service from a Google-powered phone to call globally without racking up terribly expensive additional mobile charges. The catch? It requires a VoIP international calling plan before you can start dialing friends worldwide. Also, pricing is subject to your existing calling plan and it doesn't support messaging like some other similar apps, including Fring and Viber. For existing Vonage users, it's certainly a sweet added feature, leaving you no excuse but to call Auntie Lulu.

[Thanks, Val]

Vonage launches Android app for free international calling, still no service to Brodo Asogi originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 09:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid appandroid appsAndroidAppAndroidAppsappappsextensionsextensions appExtensionsAppgoogleinternational callinginternational callsInternationalCallingInternationalCallslong distanceLongDistancemessagingmobile callingMobileCallingmobilepostminiphonephone servicePhoneServiceunlimited callingUnlimitedCallingvoice over IPVoiceOverIpvoipvonagevonage extensionsVonageExtensionsFri, 02 Sep 2011 09:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Invoxia NVX 610 desktop VoIP phone for iPhone and iPad hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/invoxia-nvx-610-desktop-voip-phone-for-iphone-and-ipad-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/invoxia-nvx-610-desktop-voip-phone-for-iphone-and-ipad-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/invoxia-nvx-610-desktop-voip-phone-for-iphone-and-ipad-hands-on/#comments
If we're going to spend $599 on a phone, it needs to offer unparalleled audio quality, absolutely seamless device integration, and a drop-dead gorgeous design. Invoxia, a new entrant to the world of VoIP telephony, claims to have created just that, with its NVX 610. The desktop unit uses an iPhone (or iPod touch or iPad) app as its control interface -- the hardware itself includes only touch-sensitive volume, mute, speakerphone, and voicemail keys. With the exception of accessing your iOS device's address book, however, all of the phone's hardware is self-contained. Calls are processed using the built-in ARM Cortex-A8 processor, and can be made via Skype or any third-party SIP. You can also take incoming iPhone calls using the handset or speakerphone, but all outgoing calls are processed using VoIP, not your iPhone's mobile network. We took a peek at the NVX 610 at IFA, and definitely liked what we saw. Jump past the break for our initial impressions, and a (somewhat noisy) intro video from Invoxia CEO Serge Renouard.

Gallery: Invoxia NVX 610 Desktop VoIP Phone for iOS (hands-on)

Continue reading Invoxia NVX 610 desktop VoIP phone for iPhone and iPad hands-on (video)

Invoxia NVX 610 desktop VoIP phone for iPhone and iPad hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 13:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple ipadapple ipad 2apple iphoneapple iphone 4AppleIpadAppleIpad2AppleIphoneAppleIphone4callcallingcallshands-oninvoxiainvoxia NVX 610InvoxiaNvx610iosipadipad 2Ipad2iphoneiphone 4Iphone4ipodipod touchIpodTouchNVX 610Nvx610sipskypespeakerphonevoipThu, 01 Sep 2011 13:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Google offers free calls home from Gmail for American military]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/google-offers-free-calls-home-from-gmail-for-american-military/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/google-offers-free-calls-home-from-gmail-for-american-military/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/google-offers-free-calls-home-from-gmail-for-american-military/#comments Gmail calls Google knows how valuable our service men and women are, and how hard it is to be away from home on long tours of duty. The company is giving back where it can, by offering free calls within Gmail to the states for people with a valid .mil email address. It might not seem like much, but you'd understand after getting your first cell phone bill with roaming charges from the eastern mountains of Afghanistan. To take advantage all you have to do is add your military address to your Google account and click a link in the verification email and you're good to go.

Google offers free calls home from Gmail for American military originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 16:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>callingcallsgmailgooglegoogle voiceGoogleVoicemilitaryphone callsPhoneCallsvoipWed, 31 Aug 2011 16:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Skype outs Freetalk Connect-Me Home Phone Adapter, does VoIP for old fashioned handsets]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/skype-outs-freetalk-connect-me-home-phone-adapter-does-voip-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/skype-outs-freetalk-connect-me-home-phone-adapter-does-voip-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/skype-outs-freetalk-connect-me-home-phone-adapter-does-voip-for/#comments If you're still sporting a landline as your main connection to the outside world, Skype's now offering a more up-to-date way to use that dusty old handset. The VoIP platform has just introduced two new products that will bring Skype-specific internet calling to your home phone. Billed as a "hassle-free, plug-and-play solution" the Freetalk Connect-Me Home Phone Adapter connects to your landline and broadband allowing you to make free calls to other Skype users as well as plain old landlines and cellphones worldwide (for a price). If you like your home phone with a little extra corporate branding, the outfit's also hooked up with GE to offer a Skype-approved cordless, simply referred to as The GE Digital Cordless Expandable Telephone with Skype, which offers free calling to Skype users as well as "low-cost" calls to your poor Skype-less contacts. The Home Phone Adapter comes with plans ranging from $39.99 to $59.99, while the Skype phone can be yours for between $69.99 and $89.99. Both are now available at the source link below, and full PR awaits you after the break.

Continue reading Skype outs Freetalk Connect-Me Home Phone Adapter, does VoIP for old fashioned handsets

Skype outs Freetalk Connect-Me Home Phone Adapter, does VoIP for old fashioned handsets originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Freetalk Connect-MeFreetalk ConnectMeFreetalkConnect-meFreetalkConnectmeGEGE Digital Cordless Expandable TGeDigitalCordlessExpandableThome phone adapterHomePhoneAdapterSkypeSkype Freetalk ConnectMeSkype FreeTalk ConnectMe Home Phone Adapterskype home phone adapterSkypeFreetalkConnectmeSkypeFreetalkConnectmeHomePhoneAdapterSkypeHomePhoneAdaptervoice of internetvoice over internet protocolVoiceOfInternetVoiceOverInternetProtocolVoIPWed, 31 Aug 2011 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Jawbone announces Icon HD headset with improved audio, 'Nerd' adapter for making PC-based VoIP calls]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/jawbone-announces-icon-hd-headset-with-improved-audio-nerd-ad/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/jawbone-announces-icon-hd-headset-with-improved-audio-nerd-ad/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/jawbone-announces-icon-hd-headset-with-improved-audio-nerd-ad/#comments
It's been the better part of a year since we've seen a new Jawbone headset, and in that time the outfit's clearly been focusing less on brainstorming cutesy names for its Bluetooth earpieces and more on tweaking the sound quality. The company just announced the Icon HD, whose wideband speaker is 25 percent larger than the original Icon's, and which lets you pause and play songs and podcasts by pressing a button on the headset. The real story, though, isn't the Icon HD, but The Nerd, a questionably named add-on that plugs into your computer's USB port, allowing the headset to field VoIP calls from PCs and Macs, in addition to ones coming through to your cellphone. The hook here -- aside from the added functionality -- is that it's a plug-n-play device that doesn't require any software installation. It's almost as if -- wait for it -- a nerd took the reins and set up wireless VoIP calling for you. The pair's on sale as a bundle for $139, and will hit brick-and-mortar stores soon. In other news, Jawbone's Companion for Android app, which displays headsets' battery life among other vitals, is now out of the testing phase and ready for general consumption. Full PR after the break.

Continue reading Jawbone announces Icon HD headset with improved audio, 'Nerd' adapter for making PC-based VoIP calls

Jawbone announces Icon HD headset with improved audio, 'Nerd' adapter for making PC-based VoIP calls originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Android appAndroid appsAndroidAppAndroidAppsBluetoothBluetooth headsetBluetooth headsetsBluetoothHeadsetBluetoothHeadsetsIconJawboneJawbone Companion for AndroidJawbone IconJawbone Icon HDJawboneCompanionForAndroidJawboneIconJawboneIconHdThe NerdTheNerdvoipwireless adapterWirelessAdapterTue, 30 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: front facing cameras, Skype integration coming with Mango update (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/microsoft-front-facing-cameras-skype-integration-coming-with-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/microsoft-front-facing-cameras-skype-integration-coming-with-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/microsoft-front-facing-cameras-skype-integration-coming-with-m/#comments When Microsoft unveiled the SGH-i937 Mango Windows Phone 7 handset last month, we noticed what appeared to be a front facing camera perched atop the Galaxy S II-like device. Now, the company has confirmed that forthcoming Mango flavored phones will indeed feature face-gazing shooters, along with Skype integration. The confirmation came at Redmond's TechEd event in New Zealand, where two employees also revealed that Microsoft's Lync VoIP client will soon expand to other platforms, including iOS, Android and Symbian. As for that Skype integration, the reps assured the audience that it's coming soon, though it remains unclear whether it'll come in the form of an app, or a subsequent update. You can watch the TechEd session for yourself after the break, but be warned that parts of it are somewhat inaudible.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading Microsoft: front facing cameras, Skype integration coming with Mango update (video)

Microsoft: front facing cameras, Skype integration coming with Mango update (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 06:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcamerafront facing cameraFrontFacingCameraioslyncmangomessagingmicrosoftmicrosoft lyncmicrosoft OSMicrosoftLyncMicrosoftOsmobilepostcrossMSnew zealandNewZealandOSphoneskypesmartphonesoftwaresymbianvoipwindows phoneWindowsPhoneThu, 25 Aug 2011 06:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Vonage Time to Call app lets you make international calls from your iPhone, pay through iTunes]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/vonage-time-to-call-app-lets-you-make-international-calls-from-y/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/vonage-time-to-call-app-lets-you-make-international-calls-from-y/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/vonage-time-to-call-app-lets-you-make-international-calls-from-y/#comments Making international VoIP calls from your iPhone just got slightly less complicated, and slightly more expensive. Vonage's new Time to Call app lets you make short, 15-minute calls to 190 countries with rates ranging from 99 cents to $9.99 per call. Payments are processed through iTunes, so you don't need to create an account with Vonage, giving the app a slight advantage over services from competitors like Skype -- for now, at least. The app works over WiFi everywhere, and 3G in the US and Canada, and you'll pay the same rate when calling both mobile phones and landlines -- so you could save quite a bit if you typically make short calls to mobile numbers. For casual callers, however, the app's most appealing feature is the free call you'll get after installation. We wasted it on a 30-second call to Tokyo that would've cost us three cents to make using Skype, so hopefully you'll be slightly more creative.

Continue reading Vonage Time to Call app lets you make international calls from your iPhone, pay through iTunes

Vonage Time to Call app lets you make international calls from your iPhone, pay through iTunes originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 19:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>callingcallsinternationalinternational callsInternationalCallsphone callsPhoneCallsroamingskypetime to callTimeToCallvoipvonagevonage time to callVonageTimeToCallWed, 03 Aug 2011 19:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Move over Skype, calling from Gmail now supports 38 languages and cheaper calls]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/move-over-skype-calling-from-gmail-now-supports-38-languages-an/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/move-over-skype-calling-from-gmail-now-supports-38-languages-an/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/move-over-skype-calling-from-gmail-now-supports-38-languages-an/#comments
Kon'nichiwa, hola, and bonjour says Google, as it expands Gmail calling to support a total of 38 languages and four currencies including Euros, British pounds and Canadian / US dolla dolla bills y'all. The calling feature allows Gmail users to call landlines and mobile phones from within their Gmail browser for next to nothing, making the email center a one-stop shop for IMs, emails, video and voice calls. The year-old service is lowering its call rates to $0.10 per minute to mobile phones in the UK, France, and Germany, $0.15 per minute to Mexico, and $0.02 per minute to any number in China and India. Calling landlines is even cheaper -- which would be fantastic if you actually knew someone that still used one. The expanded language support and cheaper calls adds another piece of ammo to Google's arsenal as it goes head-to-head with Skype (which charges $0.18 - $0.25 per minute for calls to UK mobile numbers), after the company conveniently partnered with Google+'s arch nemesis for calls from within the social network. But hey, at least those late-night arguments won't cost the former nearly as much as it once did.

Continue reading Move over Skype, calling from Gmail now supports 38 languages and cheaper calls

Move over Skype, calling from Gmail now supports 38 languages and cheaper calls originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Aug 2011 18:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>callingcommunicationsglobalgmailgooglegoogle voiceGoogleVoiceinternationallanguagelanguagesvoicevoipTue, 02 Aug 2011 18:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Skype 5.5 for Windows now available, complete with deeper Facebook integration]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/skype-5-5-for-windows-now-available-complete-with-deeper-facebo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/skype-5-5-for-windows-now-available-complete-with-deeper-facebo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/skype-5-5-for-windows-now-available-complete-with-deeper-facebo/#comments The beta version has been available for over a month, but those that prefer to play things safe can now download the final version of Skype 5.5 for Windows (and Windows only, at the moment). According to Skype, that version includes a number of additional updates based on user feedback, but the standout feature remains the deep Facebook integration, which will let you call and IM your friends, update your status, and engage in other Facebook-related activities. Skype is also promising "enhanced video call reliability," and it's made yet more design changes that promise to "improve your overall Skype experience." You can judge that yourself by downloading the application at the link below.

Skype 5.5 for Windows now available, complete with deeper Facebook integration originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 11:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookfacebook integrationFacebookIntegrationskypeskype 5.5Skype5.5video callvideo callingvideo callsvideo chatVideoCallVideoCallingVideoCallsVideoChatvoipwindowsThu, 28 Jul 2011 11:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Vonage Extensions makes mobile international calling a free-of-charge affair]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/vonage-extensions-makes-mobile-international-calling-a-free-of-c/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/vonage-extensions-makes-mobile-international-calling-a-free-of-c/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/vonage-extensions-makes-mobile-international-calling-a-free-of-c/#commentsHey Vonage customers, your VoIP service of choice is about to get a bit of a mobile value-add. Announced today, the company's new Extensions service links your existing home internet calling plan to extra phone numbers -- like a cellphone-- for free, so you can make that long-distance call to Tante Lulu in Gstaad on-the-go. Okay, so the feature isn't exactly gratis -- you're still required to sign up for an unlimited international calling plan, but the bucks literally stop there. All it takes to get started with this "virtual calling card" is an access number and some foreign digits. Sound too complicated for you? Don't fret, official iPhone and Android-compatible apps are scheduled to hit their respective markets in the coming weeks. So, go ahead and ring ol' Lu for her 89th birthday. She'll be glad you called.

Continue reading Vonage Extensions makes mobile international calling a free-of-charge affair

Vonage Extensions makes mobile international calling a free-of-charge affair originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappsExtensionshdinternationalinternational callinginternational callsInternationalCallingInternationalCallslandlinelandlinesLulumobile callingMobileCallingphonephone servicePhoneServicesmartphoneunlimited callingUnlimitedCallingvoipvonageVonage ExtensionsVonageExtensionsWed, 27 Jul 2011 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Viber's free, no-registration 3G VoIP app officially launches on Android]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/20/vibers-free-no-registration-3g-voip-app-officially-launches-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/20/vibers-free-no-registration-3g-voip-app-officially-launches-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/20/vibers-free-no-registration-3g-voip-app-officially-launches-on/#comments
Hey there, friends. Do you have the voice-calling blues, wishing for a better way to talk to your friends -- without using your minutes? Consider Viber, a free VoIP app that launched for the iPhone last year. Usable over 3G or WiFi, with built-in SMS, it requires no registration, using your existing phone number and contact list. Our only quibble? A disheartening lack of Android support. But our spirits are lifted today, with the app making its way to the everyone's favorite olive-green market. It has all the compelling features of the iOS version, plus a few extras we saw in the limited beta, like pop-up text message notification, in-app call logs, and the option to use Viber as your default dialer. The company must be doing something right, as it claims 12 million active users just seven months after launch. Interested in being one of them? Check the full PR -- with video! -- after the break.

Continue reading Viber's free, no-registration 3G VoIP app officially launches on Android

Viber's free, no-registration 3G VoIP app officially launches on Android originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g3g calling3gCallingandroidappapp storeappleAppStorecallingcross-platformsmsTextingvibervideovoipWed, 20 Jul 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Line2 brings phone functionality to iPad for 10 bucks a month (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/14/line2-brings-phone-functionality-to-ipad-for-10-bucks-a-month-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/14/line2-brings-phone-functionality-to-ipad-for-10-bucks-a-month-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/14/line2-brings-phone-functionality-to-ipad-for-10-bucks-a-month-v/#comments
Remember that ridiculous Steven Slater rap video promoting Line2's in-flight texting app? Well, the VoIP company just dusted off the point-and-shoot and hopped back over to YouTube, this time peddling a complete telephony solution for iPad. Launching July 28th, the service will let you place phone calls using a wired headset or the built-in speaker and mic, listen to voicemail, and send texts from a single HD interface. After a one-week trial, you'll pay $10 per month (or $100 per year) for the privilege, though with free number porting and unlimited domestic calling that's a fairly solid deal. Many of us barely use our cell phones to place phone calls anymore, but if you're looking to extend that little-used functionality to your tablet, then Line2 for iPad may be ringing. We haven't had a chance to go hands-on just yet, but click past the break for a comprehensive video demo, complete with in-app email and an iTunes-like contacts carousel.

Update: Line2 says the app also supports Bluetooth calling on the iPad 2 with any device that features HFP 1.5. Apple restricts functionality, however, so you'll only be able to use the headset for audio -- you'll still need to place and receive calls directly on the iPad.

Continue reading Line2 brings phone functionality to iPad for 10 bucks a month (video)

Line2 brings phone functionality to iPad for 10 bucks a month (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 04:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapp storeAppleapple ipadAppleIpadappsAppStorecallingcellphoneipadipad 2Ipad2iphoneline2videovoice over IPVoiceOverIpvoipThu, 14 Jul 2011 04:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Skype comes to Facebook, and Facebook comes to Skype (update: available now!)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/06/skype-comes-to-facebook-and-facebook-comes-to-skype/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/06/skype-comes-to-facebook-and-facebook-comes-to-skype/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/06/skype-comes-to-facebook-and-facebook-comes-to-skype/#comments It ain't the first time Mark Zuckerberg has taken the stage to announce... something, but today's shindig is resulting in "something" that's a bit more exciting for the average user. As rumored, the world's most notable VoIP service is set to become exceedingly integrated with the world's most notable social network. Skype has just thrown up a teaser page for v5.3 for Windows (and v5.5 Beta), noting that Skype and Facebook will aim to provide "the best of both worlds."

Zuck is primarily announcing three main things today: group chat, a new way to chat ("an easier way to find someone who is online") and Skype-enabled video chat. Oh, and the tiny, tiny fact that there's now 750 million Facebook members. What's notable is just how easy it is to fire up a group chat (or send transcripts to group members who miss out) and get a video call going using your existing Skype contact list. A single click is all it takes, and we're told that it'll be rolled out to everyone "over the next few weeks" in 70 different languages. The new chat design will be scalable based on your browser size, and the company made a point to mention that it'll be listening closely to user input in order to iterate as it moves forward.

Tony Bates stepped up to the plate, and noted that over 300 million videocall minutes a month are going through Skype, and at peak times, over half of its traffic is video. He also noted that the technology behind it was "tough" to construct, but somehow it managed to hammer this whole thing out in around six months via joint development. There's also talk about future "paid products" in due time, and it's strikingly clear that this partnership isn't going to fade anytime soon. If you're looking to take a dive yourself, hit up the source links below for the Windows applications, and wear that F5 button out over at Facebook's homepage if you're more of the "in-browser" type.

Oh, and if you're curious about mobile -- video chat isn't active on that front yet, and Mark's not spilling any details on "when." To quote him on a question of time tables: "We'll see."

Update: Those on the web can get started right now. Of note, this forces open the familiar chat bar, so it doesn't much look like you can hide from "those people" while attempting to find folks on Skype. Sadly, we're also seeing that doing so can add loads of Facebook contacts to your Skype program, and there's no real way to see that it's happening until it's too late. Clever, Mark.

Update 2: We've spent a little time with both of the new options, and you can read up on our impressions here!

Skype comes to Facebook, and Facebook comes to Skype (update: available now!) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 13:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappsbreaking newscallingcommunicationcommunicationsfacebookfacebook video callingFacebookVideoCallinglikeMark ZuckerbergMarkZuckerbergsharingskypesocial networksocial networkingSocialNetworkSocialNetworkingvideo callingvideo chatVideoCallingVideoChatvoipWed, 06 Jul 2011 13:24:00 EST<![CDATA[NetTalk joins forces with LightSquared, enters the cellular arena]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/29/nettalk-joins-forces-with-lightsquared-enters-the-cellular-aren/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/29/nettalk-joins-forces-with-lightsquared-enters-the-cellular-aren/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/29/nettalk-joins-forces-with-lightsquared-enters-the-cellular-aren/#commentsNetTalk and LightSquaredMagicJack rival NetTalk is planning to crawl out of the infomercial doldrums and launch its own, branded LTE wireless service with the aid of LightSquared. See, when the cellular wholesaler is done taking out GPS signals it plans to sell space on its network to other companies who will then market it to consumers -- and NetTalk wants to be one of those companies. Obviously, offering mobile voice and data is new territory for the VoIP provider but, as always, more competition on the cellular scene is quite welcome. It's still too early for details like pricing, features, or devices, but we do have some lovely PR after the break.

Continue reading NetTalk joins forces with LightSquared, enters the cellular arena

NetTalk joins forces with LightSquared, enters the cellular arena originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 14:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4glightsquaredltenettalkpartnershipvoipWed, 29 Jun 2011 14:39:00 EST