Short takes from this week's network news
Free Skype calls available on mobiles
Voice over IP (VoIP) systems provider IPdrum has launched a
product that brings free Skype calls to mobile phones. The IPdrum
Mobile Skype Cable went on sale across the world last week,
allowing Skype users to make and receive Skype calls over the GSM
network.
IP network service for small businesses
Cisco has assembled a new package of IP-network hardware and
software for small businesses which includes voice over IP (VoIP)
systems. The service, Cisco Business Communications Solution (BCS),
comprises two Catalyst series switches, one for small businesses
with up to 250 workers, and the other for companies with 250 to
1,500 staff.
BMI set to offer in-flight mobile phone
service
BMI will be one of the first British airlines to offer an
in-flight mobile phone service to passengers travelling to major
business destinations out of Heathrow. It will trial the service -
from OnAir, Siemens and partners - on an Airbus A320 in late 2006.
By this time, OnAir expects the onboard equipment to be certified,
and the telecoms regulatory approvals to be in place, permitting
the safe use of mobile phones on flights.
Wi-Fi adapter designed to handle multimedia
Networking supplier Ruckus has launched a Wi-Fi adapter that is
designed to handle multimedia, offering "consistent, uninterrupted
bandwidth". The adapter will be built into IP TV services for
consumers first, but will eventually come to businesses with the
adoption of IP voice services.
AOL to preview major messaging upgrade
AOL is releasing a preview edition of a major upgrade to its
instant messaging client.
The Triton upgrade adds real-time voice and video to AOL's AIM
instant messaging client, as well as enabling users to send e-mail
and text messages to mobile phones.