X-bit labs

Nokia Tests Calling over Wi-Fi Networks.

Category: Mobile

by Anton Shilov

[ 07/28/2006 | 02:10 PM ]

Nokia, the world’s largest maker of cellular phones, said Friday that it had begun testing its very first public Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA) pilot over Wireless LANs (WLANs). If the company finds the results successful, then it may propose calling via Wi-Fi networks to certain operators. However, it is unclear whether the feature will be in demand.

“UMA technology truly brings simplicity in the usage of voice over IP. This pilot project is an important step forward in bringing functional UMA technology to the mass market. Both operators and consumers will be able to garner the benefits of this new technology,” said Peter Ropke, senior vice president, mobile phones R&D, Nokia. 

UMA technology makes it possible for users to seamlessly roam and handover between wireless local area networks (Wi-Fi) and wide area networks (such as GSM) using the same dual-mode device. Instead of constantly communicating with a base station, UMA allows the phone to also make calls through WLAN internet networks, provided that those networks are capable of establishing secure IP connection through a gateway to a server called a general access network controller (GANC) on the carrier’s network.

On the one hand, it is easier and cheaper for operators to expand their area coverage by implementing WLAN hotspots instead of costly base stations, while users may benefit from using Wi-Fi networks instead of GSM or HSDPA networks because, presumably, talks via Wi-Fi networks will be less costly. On the other hand, there are numerous VoIP services, such as Skype, that offer either free, or come at a very low price. Moreover, very few access points in airports, cafes, hotels, train stations and other public places are free and do not require browser authorization. Meanwhile, for homes and offices there are already Wi-Fi phones made for Skype, which can dial and receive calls either for free or at a really low rates.

Analysts believe that more and more phones will get Wi-Fi connectivity, as people tend to require affordable high-speed Internet access from public places.

This live trial will last at least two months and is being conducted under real life surroundings and conditions. Fifty families from the city of Oulu will be trying and testing the functionalities of this new technology with the help of a brand new Nokia 6136 mobile device. The pilot project is a joint cooperation between Nokia, the DNA/Finnet group and the City of Oulu. The City of Oulu announced the Pan Oulu project last year which enables its citizens to receive free WLAN internet via hotspots around the city.