USB Phones, Skype Phones and VoIP Routers: Who Controls the VoIP Hardware Market?
Jan Jesman
The world of VoIP is moving swiftly away from the early days of microphones, geeky headsets and dubious looking softphone applications. These relics have gradually been replaced with much more sophisticated applications and USB phones which are a match for many of the most sophisticated landline phones available. These familiar and functional devices have begun to present a way into VoIP for those people who would rather pay more expensive phone bills than don a call-centre style headset to make calls. When one also considers the increasing availability and developing functionality of RJ11 adaptors and broadband routers incorporating VoIP and SIP compliant telephone lines and it becomes clear that the consumer is left with a bewildering choice of VoIP hardware.
Hardware manufacturers have been quick to note and react to this rapidly growing market however the service providers have been lagging very far behind. The key issue is compatibility between the USB phone device or adapter and the VoIP service provider and their softphone software. Compatible devices offer better call quality, easy access to advanced softphone and account features and increased confidence in VoIP service as a whole.
Skype has led the way, in sourcing developing, testing and branding their own USB Phones and other hardware. Keen to safeguard the reputation of their service Skype has long been vetting products for use in their service and tying in appropriate products to their brand. Skype alone currently offers truly and instantly recognisable Skype Phones to the public. This approach has great potential, by working closely with hardware developers Skype has opened up an entire new market place for itself and ensured the enduring quality of its service. It is clear that to better develop and market their services other VoIP service providers would be wise to follow Skype's example working with hardware developers and manufacturers to ensure that their new and existing users have access to a range of well designed and branded hardware that is clearly compatible with their service.
About the author:
Jan Jesman is a director of I-VoIP.co.uk a U.K. based
retailer of USB Phones and Skype Phones. The site also aims to
keep VoIP simple for home users.