14 DAY TRIAL // On the heels of Apple's shipping the new In-Ear Headphone set with remote and mic, Software Cellular Network Ltd has released Truphone, a free app that enables iPod touch users to place and receive calls anywhere in the world. The app is also available for iPhone users.
From the iTunes App Store, Truphone's description goes,
Transform your iPod into a phone with ‘Truphone Touch’, the revolutionary communications app for the Apple iPod Touch. Truphone lets you make FREE calls to other Truphone users by harnessing your iPod’s Wi-Fi connection to make voice calls over the Internet. If you’re familiar with cheap PC Internet calls, then you’ll love Truphone for the iPod.
That's right, Truphone doesn't require users to hack their devices, or use unauthorized third-party add-ons. Truphone is easily downloaded from the App Store, just like any app, and requires a microphone adaptor accessory to use. While the company is actively working to deliver this add-on, iPod touch owners can use Apple's newly-released In-Ear Headphones with Remote and Mic (currently available for purchase at the Apple Store).
Truphone uses one's iPod's Wi-Fi connection to carry calls over the Internet to their destination. There is no monthly line rental, no subscription, or other hidden charges. However, Truphone is not a replacement for an ordinary telephone service, while emergency calls cannot be made using the app. Truphone cannot advise on the legality of VoIP (voice over IP) services in specific territories or jurisdictions. It is the user’s responsibility to confirm that use of the Truphone VoIP software and service is permitted in the location in which they use it, according to Applelinks.
Free calls that can be made include iPod touch to iPod touch, iPod touch to Truphone (some Nokia handsets), Truphone (same Nokia handsets plus iPhone) to iPod touch, iPod touch to Google Talk PC user. Requirements are a second-generation iPod touch (i.e. current model), a headset and microphone, and friends also using Truphone.
Making a Truphone call on an iPod touch is a breeze. One only has to use the virtual keypad provided by the app, when they fire it up to enter a friend's number. An upcoming update to Truphone will bring the ability to call landlines (PSTN) at low cost by setting oneself up with a Truphone account, instant messaging to Skype and MSN (free), calling to Skype users (free), calling to MSN users (free), check and set facilities for Twitter (free), check and set facilities for Facebook (free).
Visit the official Truphone site here for guides and instructions on how to set up and use the app on your device.
Download Truphone for iPod touch via iTunes App Store (Free)