Calls for EU action in uproar about VoIP calls

Companies which offer internet calling via VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) are calling for legislation to prevent mobile broadband network operators from blocking their services.

Internet phone services are becoming increasingly popular with those in the know as they often work out cheaper than fixed line or mobile telephone alternatives. However, some mobile carriers have been blocking the use of these services, fearing that allowing them would impact negatively on their own voice revenues.

The matter has come to the fore with T-Mobile Germany's announcement that it will block the use of Skype on the iPhone, which is particularly unpopular since T-Mobile is the only network to carry the iPhone in Germany. Now the Voice on the Net (VON) coalition Europe, which includes Intel, Microsoft and Google, is calling for the EU to adopt policies which prevent this behaviour, and force mobile carriers to allow VoIP calls on smartphones and mobile broadband connections. 

"Blocking of voice applications on mobile devices, such as the announcement of T-Mobile to block Skype on iPhones in Germany, is highly detrimental for consumer welfare in Europe," VON said in a statement.