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Considering the hype about 3G networks, particularly surrounding the iPhone, it’s surprising to hear about a push for 4G that is picking up speed.  The gain is largely due to the implementation of VoIP.  With 300,000 Vo4G subscribers already, it’s moving in the right direction.

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol and is used (frequently in conjunction with existing public switched telephone networks) for the delivery of voice communications over IP networks.  This includes both internet and intranet.

Being called Vo4G or VoIP 4G, the transition to a full packet-switched system is happening slowly already.  With technologies like LTE and WiMAX already optimizing for Vo4G, the transition is moving forward.  The two will be the first to be fully Vo4G.  But potential issues such as the fact that WiMAX does not bother itself with speech-based traffic Quality of Service may slow progress.

This could all spell big changes for the wireless and mobile communities in general.  Considering the enormous growth Skype (the major VoIP phone service provider world-wide), mergers and outright closings could be in the near future for cell companies.  Keep in mind though, an internet connection in necessary for VoIP phones to work currently.

Source: Press Release