Google's bringing the noise--literally.
Earlier today, Google announced the availability of a VoIP calling feature for Gmail users, allowing those of us who rock a Googlemail account to call landline and cellular telephones from the comfort of our inbox. The service, currently available only to Gmail users residing in the U.S., will allow for free calls to phones in North America "at least the rest of the year." While you'll be dinged for calls to other countries outside of North America, as those already enjoying the benefits of VoIP will tell you, the cost of those conversations will be significantly less than if they were placed on a conventional home or mobile phone.
From the looks of things, using the service couldn't be easier: The option to call is included in the same dialogue pane as Gmail users currently find their chat and video options. By clicking "Call phone," users will bring up a number pad where they can then dial the telephone number.
Pretty sweet, eh? Still, in the face of Google's recent alliance with Verizon, a company that has a lot to lose in the face of VoIP alternatives to their cellular products, one has to wonder what Google's game is. Are they getting busy with the not being evil, or is there something up their sleeve? Who knows--in the meantime, let's all enjoy the free phone call goodness!
zachsterza1994
August 26, 2010 at 5:44am
Same thing happened to me. I go into gmail, and look every where the dial pad is no where to be found. i go to gmail.com/call and fallow the instructions, still nothing. I wonder if Google is taking it's time on the project.
Loup407
August 25, 2010 at 1:49pm
I downloaded the file onto my iMac, restarted Firefox (as per instructions) and it still doesn't appear on my gmail page. This would be sweet, if it worked. Did AT&T help develop this?
