leo's blog

When Google does anything, it’s big news. First it was Google Voice, then it was Google Wave, and last week it was the new Gmail upgrade that allows users to call out to the PSTN. Let’s quickly go over some of Google’s existing ‘voice chat’ tools.

Google Chat/Talk is probably more commonly known as the built-in IM client in Gmail. It allows voice and video chats but is limited to PC-to-PC only.

Counterpath recently added support for iOS 4 multitasking and multiple SIP accounts to their mobile Bria application. We currently have multiple people in the office extensively running the app on their phones, and it's been working great—definitely something we will mention to our customers looking for a mobile solution.

I think our new HD music on hold feature is pretty cool. Users who elect to go with the enhanced version can take their pick from a list of thousands of online radio stations, which I’m sure is a lot more variety than they’re used to.

But, if you’re like me, you want your caller to be pumped up for the call by your on-hold music. And, finding the perfect song might be difficult. For example, lets say we want users to hear the music from the Inception trailer ( ominous foghorn in all its glory ) when we put them on hold.

If you're a fan of XML applications and giant LCD displays on your phone, then it doesn't really get much better than this.

We've recently reviewed the Aastra 6739i, the top of the line SIP desk phone with a 5.7" color touch screen display and the upgraded hardware to support wideband audio in all its glory.

A new version of firmware is being pushed to ATT U-verse 2Wire modems that turns on the SIP ALG and prevents users from accessing the advanced tab to turn it off. Currently the only remedy is to have the modem placed in bridge mode and add a router, such as the Linksys WRT54G, which does not have a SIP ALG.

Here are a few external links to help you along with this process:

Chances are that if you’re reading this blog, then you’ve already heard about Cisco’s upcoming Cius tablet, the miniature (7 inch screen, 1.15 lbs) enterprise version of the iPad, complete with a front mounted 720p camera capable of recording at 30fps. Other specifications and features include an 8 hr battery life under normal running conditions, support for WiFi, 3G, and eventually 4G, a dock with a handset and ‘HD Speakers’, and the Android OS.

Here’s the marketing video.

A little over a month ago, we wrote up a review of the Acrobits Softphone, a mobile SIP client for the iPhone clearly made for the everyday consumer. It was great for making and receiving calls (with push notifications enabled), but the functionality stopped there. I ranted for a while about the state of mobile VoIP applications, gave the app a ‘good for what it is made for’ review, and called it quits.

VoIP calling on mobile devices is having a serious impact on the telecom industry and it’s showing. Every week, publishers are releasing updates to mobile VoIP apps, or announcing new features to attract downloads. There is a lot of buzz (or noise, depending on who you ask), but with the recent Juniper Research report prediction that there will be 100 million + mobile VoIP users by 2012, all the commotion seems justified.

In case you hadn't heard already, Steve Jobs gave a big keynote speech on Monday at WWDC, where he unveiled the new iPhone 4 and the improved iOS 4 to a roomful of developers. He laid out a long list of new software and hardware upgrades, including the integrated antennas, the new 'retina' display, the Gyroscope, the improved camera, and more. Believe me when I say that there was plenty for the audience members (and myself) to ooh and aah over.

The last feature Steve announced, the built in HD Video calling feature, is particularly interesting.

You’ll often hear about how our service does wonders for companies with employees working from home or from a remote office. All you need is an Internet connection; you can plug your phone in anywhere to have access to your OnSIP business phone system and all the features that come along with it.