TMCnews Featured Article

October 22, 2012

Data Demand Helping to Drive Mobile VoIP Growth

By Susan J. Campbell, TMCnet Contributing Editor

In the world of mobility, there is a constant and growing demand for mobile VoIP. Why? If you were to examine the average teenage user – I have two in my house – you’ll see the data they are accessing on any given day is pushing the boundaries of even the most generous of data plans. Despite threats of being cut-off, the data they desire the most is anything but small and new plans and new phones need to accommodate the average user, regardless of age.

This is where Wi-Fi comes in, offering access to the data the consumer wants, without pressing further into their data allowance. The consumer today wants mobile VoIP and the opportunity to leverage the Internet for everything related to the mobile experience, but they don’t want it to cut into their already limited plan.

A recent Telappliant report highlighted this trend, pointing to new findings by ABI Research (News - Alert). While Wi-Fi connections have been somewhat of a luxury in the past, users are increasingly relying on these connections to allow for optimal use of Internet resources. This important feature within the handset market is expected to become even more valuable as innovations are driving faster and more reliable results. In fact, according to ABI, Wi-Fi will be measurably improved by 2015.

Josh Flood, senior analyst at ABI, told Telappliant, explains, “The wireless connection speed will be quicker; the new protocol also offers better range and improved reliability and superior power consumption. It's also capable of multiple 2X2 streams and should be particularly good for gaming experiences and HD video streaming on mobile devices."

With more locations providing Wi-Fi access all the time, cheap calls can be made using connections from just about anywhere. Plus, business users can access the mobile VoIP they need regardless of their location. If Bluetooth must be a part of the mix, a similar revamp in this area is sure to deliver stronger and more widespread capabilities in the coming years.

Even as carriers focus on the development of 4G LTE (News - Alert) technologies to support the demand for bigger and better data, the emergence of Wi-Fi is offering a viable alternative, allowing users to maximize mobile VoIP to their benefit. After all, it provides greater capabilities at a lower cost – who wouldn’t want access? With greater accessibility to Wi-Fi when on the go, mobility can continue to proliferate.

Consumers and business professionals are coming more mobile; a trend that is not likely to change anytime soon. At the same time, users want access to high definition video, complex applications and standard communication channels. When combining all three on one platform, allowable data capabilities and voice minutes often fall short of demand. Mobile VoIP helps to fill that gap, providing access to the services users want, at lower cost.

For years, carriers have viewed mobile VoIP as a threat to their business model, a capability that would take away from their revenue stream by allowing customers access to too much for too little. With the proliferation of mobile VoIP solutions to support this growing demand, carriers will have no choice but to offer similar services to maintain their place in the market and hope for a revenue-strong future.

Edited by Allison Boccamazzo

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Data Demand Helping to Drive Mobile VoIP Growth

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