iSkoot vs. T-Mobile@Home

[Sivan]

I downloaded iSkoot, the Skype application for Android. Made an overseas Android to computer call, which was a bit choppy over wi-fi, and then tried calling an overseas landline. To my surprise, iSkoot dialed a 1877 number which, using Skype credit, routed my call over the net to the end number.

I wonder why is iSkoot dialing when I call a landline? In effect this is no different than, say, a Net2Phone card. Did T-Mobile restrict it?

And then I thought it was a bit hypocritical of T-Mobile to get worked up about VoIP apps when it markets the HotSpot@Home service, which does the same to you landline carrier. Thoughts?

 

[techfire]

Allowing VoIP calls over their 3G network effectively circumvents their core revenue source. However, HotSpot@Home uses Wi-Fi, and T-Mobile charges for this feature also. I would imagine that making VoIP calls over Wi-Fi wouldn't upset T-Mobile as much as making the calls over 3G.

I do recall reading something about T-Mobile not wanting VoIP applications on the Android but they also said they wouldn't pro-actively prevent it (or something like that).

Hopefully, we'll start to see some SIP based apps that support secure RTP. G.722 and iLBC codec support would be great.

 

[noderat]

iSkoot has always dialed out regardless of platform. I used to to call my girlfriend at home when she didn't have a cell phone but we had internet access.