UK telecoms service Truphone, which runs a mobile Voice-over-IP service and a mobile virtual network operation, has announced its intention to create a new service that combines the benefits of GSM with internet calling. Truphone+ will enable customers without GSM coverage to make and receive calls on their ‘mobile number’ via a WiFi connection.
In addition, calls carried over WiFi will offer better audio quality than conventional GSM voice calls. The new Truphone+ service will check the user’s signal quality automatically and will decide whether to route calls via WiFi or a conventional mobile network.
James Tagg, Truphone’s co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, said “In the last ten years, companies have focused on mobile apps, but neglected the phone itself. Truphone + makes the smartphone a better phone.”
Truphone currently offers a MVNO under the 'Tru' brand that works in over 220 countries and is available with ‘local’ numbers in the UK, USA and Australia. Customers can use voice, SMS and data services at ‘local’ rates as they travel.
Truphone+ is expected to launch later this year.
| We spoke to James Tagg when the new Truphone service was announced and will be putting the interview online later this week. To download the programme as soon as it’s available, simply subscribe free via iTunes or our RSS feed. |