We've spoken to O2 about the impending Skype and Nokia deal over Symbian handsets - and it's not good news for its users.
Basically, as Skype is all about sending voice calls through data (which means calling people far away costs the same as dialling someone next to you) the amount of data used ramps up.
O2 has decided that this is against policy - and has given TechRadar the following statement:
"We do not as a general rule block access to voice over IP services on our network.
"However, in the case of unlimited data services such as our data bolt on and iPhone tariffs, VoIP is prohibited within the excessive use policy."
All about the customers
"These unlimited data packages are designed to allow customers to browse the web and access data services such as email without worrying about a cost per MB.
"To offer the best possible customer experience, we prohibit continuous streaming of any audio/video content, Voice over IP, P2P and file sharing services, all of which can adversely impact the overall customer experience."
There you have it - although we'd be surprised if the other networks didn't have the same kind of policy, as the use of 'unlimited' data is still a hot topic.
We've contacted other networks to find out their policy - so if you're into VOIP and think this is a travesty, let us know in the comments below.
Your comments (3) Click to add a new comment
coolspud
May 2nd 2010
3. If you want Voip why not look at Three (Hutchison 3G)?
Coverage ios excellent where I live and work (East & Greater London, and Essex).
I use Skype all the time when I call clients in the US, Brazil and Asia. Skype is included on the phone and free to use if you call another Skype client.
I also have money on my Skype account which I use to make cheap (10p / 15p a min) international Voip to land line/mobiles abroad.
As a back up I do carry an Orange PAYG and I have Skype setup as a voice mail (answering machine) which texts me whenever I miss a call.
Beware though, if you need voice dialing features none of the Android phones support it - yet. Symbian (Nokia) phones do, and so do Blackberry devices. Not sure about Apple's 3G but it isn't offered on Three anyway.
O2, Tmobile and Orange have a lot of catching up to do.
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awire
March 4th 2010
2. Why not switch evryone on every network to voip. it's cheaper for the network and the consumer.
18month Tarrif : £30/£35 unlimited data, 600 mins to any mobile in the world (or certain countrys)and 500 texts to any mobile in the world.
That would be much better for the consumer.
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heavylight
March 3rd 2010
1. Nokia's move is even more surprising considering they help networks remove voip apps from branded phones.
Don't they realise that most operators don't want us using voip?
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