Wireless network operators 'looking to mobile VoIP'

Network service providers are taking notice of moves towards mobile voice over internet protocol (VoIP) services, it has been claimed.

According to Challenger Mobile, growth in the sector has forced operators to pay attention to the new technologies.

"Demand for mobile Internet calls is a reality that no serious operator can ignore any longer," the firm said.

A sharp increase in the profile of mobile VoIP was sparked by last month's announcement of a partnership for 3G VoIP mobile services between Hutchinson 3 and Skype, according to Challenger Mobile.

The firm's chief executive Christina Sundman said: "Virtually every operator recognises that mobile VoIP is a key offering they must embrace to remain competitive in the mobile marketplace at large, and the 3-Skype partnership has just heightened that awareness."

Migrating VoIP to mobile handsets could potentially further the expansion of the technology, but it has met strong opposition from network operators concerned that they could miss out on call revenues.