01-26-2005, 10:25 AM
Is Google Planning a VoIP Service?
Analyst speculates that the search giant will launch an Internet-based telephone service.
James Niccolai, IDG News Service
Monday, January 24, 2005
Comments from a U.K. industry analyst have added to speculation that Google is planning to offer a voice over Internet Protocol telephony service.
"This would be an obvious development for the world's leading search engine. Millions have downloaded the Google toolbar, so why not a VoIP client too?" says Julian Hewett, chief analyst with Ovum, in a note distributed to reporters on Monday.
Such a service would allow users to place calls over the Internet from their PC using a headset and some client software, which can be cheaper than using a traditional voice network. VoIP services have been popularized by companies such as Skype Technologies and Vonage Holdings and are also being rolled out slowly by carriers worldwide.
"The appeal for Google is obvious: search for something, then 'click here' if you'd like to speak to the company that's selling what you're looking for," Hewett continues. "Google then collects a fee from the 'sponsor' for each voice connection. Voice calls with very little cost AND funded by advertising. What a sweet extension to Google's advertising-driven business model!" he writes.
http://www.pcworld.com/news/article/0,aid,119393,00.asp
Analyst speculates that the search giant will launch an Internet-based telephone service.
James Niccolai, IDG News Service
Monday, January 24, 2005
Comments from a U.K. industry analyst have added to speculation that Google is planning to offer a voice over Internet Protocol telephony service.
"This would be an obvious development for the world's leading search engine. Millions have downloaded the Google toolbar, so why not a VoIP client too?" says Julian Hewett, chief analyst with Ovum, in a note distributed to reporters on Monday.
Such a service would allow users to place calls over the Internet from their PC using a headset and some client software, which can be cheaper than using a traditional voice network. VoIP services have been popularized by companies such as Skype Technologies and Vonage Holdings and are also being rolled out slowly by carriers worldwide.
"The appeal for Google is obvious: search for something, then 'click here' if you'd like to speak to the company that's selling what you're looking for," Hewett continues. "Google then collects a fee from the 'sponsor' for each voice connection. Voice calls with very little cost AND funded by advertising. What a sweet extension to Google's advertising-driven business model!" he writes.
http://www.pcworld.com/news/article/0,aid,119393,00.asp
Julian Flores
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Understand that friends come and go, but with a precious few you should hold on.
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Understand that friends come and go, but with a precious few you should hold on.