VoIP services to benefit from rise of 4G?

Usage of VoIP services via mobile phones could be set to rise in line with the implementation of 4G networks over the next five years, it has been suggested.

In an article for ZDNet, technology expert T Jowitt revealed many communities in the US are already gaining access to 4G, which can open up a world of mobile possibilities.

These networks "should allow for users to be able to connect, communicate, surf and download content, much further out from the traditional work place," Mr Jowitt said.

Higher data transfer speeds provided by 4G technologies such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) and Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) will drastically improve mobile broadband user experience, he added.

The technology specialist concluded that the next few years are going to be crucial in the development of 4G in Europe and IT managers in charge of unified communications must be ready for the benefits it may bring.

A mobile phone may be the best way for individuals in rural communities to access broadband when the 800 MHz comes into use for telephony in 2014, O2 chief executive Ronan Dunne recently told the Scotsman.