Here’s something new and interesting … China Mobile may defy MIIT policy and offer a computer-to handset VoIP calling service. See Interfax report below.
While this may seem a bit far afield from iPhone news, there are many interesting elements to this story that may ultimately impact mobile smartphones and iPhone in China. VoIP on mobile is a very touchy topic for wireless carriers. One way to stem unauthorized VoIP app downloads to mobile phones is to offer a computer-to-handset alternative (e.g. magicJack, OOMA, Vonage, etc.) and earn some revenue in the process. Perhaps this is China Mobile’s motivation?
- It’s unusual for a carrier to openly flaunt (go against) a MIIT mandate. This suggests that this policy (no computer-to-handset VoIP calling) may be about to change. I can’t imagine China Mobile would be so bold if they knew this policy was cast in stone.
- Just as landline carriers across the planet have learned, you either get out in front of the elephant (VoIP) and offer an alternative product/service … or you will get run over.
Beijing. September 18. INTERFAX-CHINA – China Mobile Communiations Corp. plans to be the first telecom operator to launch computer-to-handset VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) services in China, going against the Ministry of Industry and Information’s (MIIT) ban, a China Mobile employee told Interfax on Sept. 16 at the P&T/Wireless & Networks Comm China 2009.
