14 DAY TRIAL // It has been confirmed that iPod touch boasts the necessary hardware to support VoIP calls. With the newly announced headphones from Apple, which ship with a built-in mic, iPod touch is good to go as a voice communications device.
“With 5 wires connected to the Touch headphone jack (instead of 4 on the previous model), the device now supports the external microphone included with some headsets,” Cult of Mac is reporting, citing Kyle Wiens of iFixit, “who fully dismantled an iPod Touch on Wednesday.”
“I’m very excited about the possibility of VOIP on [the Touch],” said Wiens. “Now we just need the software.” As it is pointed out on the abovementioned site, the software is apparently already available. Truphone is a free piece of smartphone software that can route calls cheaply over the internet via Wi-Fi, 3G but also GSM. All iPod touch 2G needs is Apple's go-ahead for using the software. Some of the main features of Truphone include:
No roaming charges – You pay the same for your mobile calls anywhere in the world. Free calls worldwide – Wi-Fi calls to online Nokia Truphone users are free. Truphone Anywhere – Make Truphone calls even when you're not connected to the Internet. Facebook – Internet calls from your Facebook profile. Always get reception – Get great reception whenever you're connected to a WiFi network, even in GSM blackspots.
The makers of Truphone claim huge success with the iPhone application, and note that they are working hard on the new version. The Truphone application is listed as a free download up on the App Store, under Travel. The app has already been updated once, adding improved account management tools, updates to the display to notify users when they are connected, and some bug fixes to make the experience a tad better. Have a closer look at the app here, and hope that the “Requirements” list soon includes the iPod touch as well.