Vodafone Removed VOIP from Nokia N95

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Skeptik

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Vodafone has finally provided an explanation for the removal of VoIP features from the Nokia N95, and apparently it's all for our own good. A Vodafone statement says the mobile operator doesn't offer its own VoIP service because it doesn't believe it's a mature technology.

It goes on to say it require "in-depth testing, a solid end-to-end customer experience, billing integration and customer service support which is not currently available".

You can bet that it's the lack of billing integration which is key here.

The statement goes on to explain: "There is a misleading perception that VoIP services are 'free'. This is, however, not the case when it comes to using VoIP over mobile where customers will need to use data connectivity to establish a service and may incur further charges."

Of course, Vodafone does offer a Data Unlimited tariff, but the details are hard to come by and it's expensive compared to the competition.

"Vodafone feels responsible that customers should not incur unnecessary charges when competitive mobile rates are a cost-effective choice for customers."

So using VoIP is no more expensive than normal mobile calls, and it would only confuse us if we had it, so better Vodafone takes it away.

However, the mobile operator says it's not reducing choice: "Lastly, it's important to note that customers can download VoIP applications if they choose to do so or can use VoIP services via a laptop and data card."

Stand-alone applications such as Fring continue to work fine on the N95 from Orange or Vodafone, but they don't offer near as compelling a user experience as the integrated solutions from the likes of Truphone.

Truphone said it is working on a stand-alone application for those unfortunate souls who bought their handsets from Orange or Vodafone, but until then the best option is still to get an unrestricted handset and enjoy the option of easy-to-use VoIP calls. ®
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http://www.theregister.co.uk/2007/04/19/vodafone_explains/

I didn't know this. Is this also the case with the local versions?
 
you can do it for any N-series phone.
No it will not void your warranty! It is official Nokia firmware, you have a right to choose what firmware you want
 
Silent_Bob said:
you can do it for any N-series phone.
No it will not void your warranty! It is official Nokia firmware, you have a right to choose what firmware you want
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Are you sure ... strictly speaking you are modifying the phone, which would void the warranty. In any case, would the Nok Shop actually do it for you?
 
Skeptik said:
Are you sure ... strictly speaking you are modifying the phone, which would void the warranty. In any case, would the Nok Shop actually do it for you?
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Yes, they would, but you going to wait long before you get your fone back.:mad:
 
If I were you I'd wait for the Firmware Upgrade from Nokia and then I'll do the update myself. This way you'll have the latest Firmware installed on your phone and you will not void your warranty because it is original Nokia software.

The new firmware should be available within the next month.;)
 
My colleague picked up a Nokia N95 from Vodacom last week and after configuring the WiFi and SIP settings and struggling to find the VoIP client I found out it was removed by Vodafone. Has Nokia released the updated firmware and is it available for Vodacom customers?

I'm planning on getting the same phone on an MTN contract, does anyone know if the VoIP client is enabled in MTN's offering?
 
EricsON said:
My colleague picked up a Nokia N95 from Vodacom last week and after configuring the WiFi and SIP settings and struggling to find the VoIP client I found out it was removed by Vodafone. Has Nokia released the updated firmware and is it available for Vodacom customers?

I'm planning on getting the same phone on an MTN contract, does anyone know if the VoIP client is enabled in MTN's offering?
Click to expand...

i have a Mtn handset and VOIP ( SIP ) is there and works wonderfully
 
UHM, tech virgin here...what is VoIP and what does it do???
 
Piesang said:
VOIP
V= Voice
O= Over
I= Internet
P= Protocol

It means you can make calles with your phone using the internet. ;)
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I assume its cheaper than a normal call, as this is probably the reason for everyone being so frustrated by vodafone removing it?
 
I know what VOIP is, just never used it... other than the Fring test call :eek:
Just don't know anyone else who uses the tech.

My father-in-law is planning on setting up Skype when they move to Tanzania for his 2-year work contract, then my wife will use it extensively I'm sure :rolleyes: (atleast I'll save a bundle on my Telkom account).
 
VOIP makes sense international only and not local and national right?
 
Mams said:
i have a Mtn handset and VOIP ( SIP ) is there and works wonderfully
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Thats AWESOME news and means that I'll definitely be getting the Nokia N95 from MTN next month when my contract renews. I can't wait to try out the N95 with my asterisk installation at the office.
 
RVQ said:
VOIP makes sense international only and not local and national right?
Click to expand...

Yeah for most people international call rates are the killer but then you get people like me that see it as a very convenient WiFi VoIP handset for the office and possibly even around the house.
 
RVQ said:
VOIP makes sense international only and not local and national right?
Click to expand...

Yeah for most people international call rates are the killer but then you get people like me that see it as a very convenient WiFi VoIP handset for the office and possibly even around the house.
 
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