VoIP via the iPad could save consumers money

Those planning to purchase an iPad could make sizeable savings by using IP telephony solutions with the device, VoIP Services has said.

Consumers looking to get hold of Apple's new tablet computer when it becomes available next month could benefit from the relatively low cost of data plans through VoIP solutions.

In the US, data plan prices currently come in at £9.60 a month for 250MB or £19.21 a month for an unlimited plan, according to the VoIP reviews website.

Seth Roach, founder of VoIP Services, said that this would mean a more expensive wireless plan would be "virtually unneeded" and users would not have to sign a contract.

However, being able to use the iPad to cuts costs will depend on whether Apple agrees to let it be used in conjunction with VoIP provider services.

Mr Roach is optimistic that Apple will enable the iPad to be used with VoIP applications, having recently done the same with the iPhone.

The iPad, introduced by Apple last month, will come in two versions, one with Wi-Fi and one with both Wi-Fi and 3G, giving it the potential to use VoIP solutions.