Google is to acquire internet-based calling software firm
Gizmo5 to boost itsGoogle Voiceservice.
Gizmo5's engineers will be joining the Google Voice team to
continue improving the Google Voice and Gizmo5 experience, Google
said in a
blog posting about the deal.
Google Voice provides a variety of services, including
multi-device phone numbers and low-cost calling, which has caused
some outcry in the US.
The US Federal Communications Commission is
conducting an inquiry in response to complaints that Google
blocks some calls to save access costs.
Google insists that Google Voice is an internet service and
therefore not covered by federal rules that govern phone
providers.
But opponents say this is giving Google an unfair advantage over
competitors bound by rules that prohibit providers from blocking
calls.
The Gizmo5 acquisition is the fourth to be announced by Google
this year and comes just days after Google revealed it is to buy
AdMob for $750m.