Predictions of VoIP jump to 3G 'too hasty'

Voice over internet protocol (VoIP) calls have relied on either wired or Wi-Fi broadband connections up until now, but a study last week suggested that these services could begin to make use of 3G on mobile phones.

According to Dean Bubley at research firm Disruptive Analysis, some 250 million users will access VoIP over 3G by 2012, with just 100 million remaining on Wi-Fi connections.

While this would amount to an impressive growth in VoIP use, these numbers are not beyond the realm of fantast as more firms choose to use IP PBX services to boost the flexibility of their employees.

However, the more controversial issue in Mr Bubley's prediction is that these services will be offered over 3G rather than Wi-Fi, which would go against the current trends in the industry.

Mr Bubley asserted that: "3G networks are increasingly capable of supporting VoIP, for both traditional mobile operators and independent internet-based VoIP challengers."

However, ZDNet technology analyst Russell Shaw said: "I'm sorry... but I don't see the scenario you describe happening too soon."

He explained that, at least in North America, telecoms firms would prefer to use marketing, lobbying and legal arguments to protect their current networks before making a dramatic switch which could potentially risk their customer base.