Wireless Voice over Internet Protocol services are emerging as a threat to traditional wireless carriers, according to a report from Alexander Resources. The report, “Wireless VoIP: What Threats to Mobile Operators?,” predicted wireless VoIP service will have a similar impact on competition and the price of service as wired VoIP offerings are currently having on traditional wired operators.
“Just as VoIP increased competition and lowered calling rates for wireline local and long-distance services, so to will wireless VoIP bring about similar changes to mobile-phone networks and services,” Alexander Resources claimed.
The report also noted that while wireless operators are looking to deploy next-generation architectures in the guise of UMTS Release 6 and CDMA2000 1x EV-DO Revision A to combat the potential threat from wireless VoIP service, lengthy deployment timelines put those plans at risk. The updated wireless networks are expected to provide sufficient data speeds to enable VoIP services using traditional cellular networks, but are not expected to begin commercial deployments until late next year.
In response to the increased competition from wireless VoIP service providers, Alexander Resources said it expects wireless carriers likely will roll out lower-priced rate plans that include unlimited calling for fixed, monthly rates in an attempt to combat wireless VoIP offerings.
