Video chat and a VoIP service has been showing up on space shuttles, airplanes, offices, public schools, and even Oprah. Recent improvements in standard internet speed (currently over three quarters of all American households have broadband, according to a study by the Consumer Electronics Association), now allow more and more options for internet telephony to enter the market.

Currently, the highest rated VoIP service option is Skype, which practically single-handedly created a VoIP market when it was first released in 2003. It quickly became the “Nike” of internet communications, with its name becoming almost synonymous with VoIP.

As of lately, however, many new options have started popping up. Many of these new choices offer improvements on Skype’s original model, while many others seem to be destined to be labeled clones. Here are a few of the more popular VoIP clients.

MegaMeeting is perhaps the most business-ready of all VoIP options at the moment. Unlike Skype’s focus on one-on-one connections, MegaMeeting supports video conferencing for up to 16 participants. What makes this option important is that on top of the 16 involved in the conversation, an unlimited amount of users can be allowed to “sit in” on the virtual conference. In addition, it also supports live application and screen sharing, as well as PowerPoint presentation capabilities.

MegaMeeting can be accessed directly through a browser for free, or purchased as a standalone program for less than $30 to ensure protected and encrypted privacy.

iChat is Apple’s answer to VoIP – it comes prepackaged with Macbooks and practically any other piece of their hardware. iChat offers many of MegaMeeting and Skype’s functions, all tied together neatly like Apple’s other products. Perhaps the main difference between iChat and any other VoIP programs is in its ease of use for the uninitiated technophiles.

Like Skype, iChat is essentially a free program – though Skype requires much more advanced hardware requirements like dual-core processors and special Logitech webcams to work. On the same note, though, iChat’s user-friendliness is directly related to being programmed into a machine that was made for it.

Aside from downloadable programs, there are also web browser based VoIP clients, like Zoho Meeting and Palbee, where no programs need to be downloaded. Zoho Meeting is more established, and allows for crisp video conferencing in 1-on-1 scenarios. Zoho does charge for additional users, however, while the newer Palbee allows for up to 5 participants.

Zoho Meeting can be used together with Skype to incorporate contacts and long distance connections, as well. Palbee has perhaps some of the most interesting options, as it has an online whiteboard for participants to share, as well as the ability to record video chats for playback or broadcast later on.

VoIP systems revolutionized office phone systems and phone system capabilities allowing more businesses on-the-go capabilities at a low cost. Just recently, cell phone providers realized this could revolutionize the mobile industry as well.

Last week the media networks went crazy covering the two major VoIP service and cell phone developments. First, Verizon announced that it will be working with Google’s Android software and will begin incorporating it into their new cell phones. Therein, new Verizon phones will be Google Voice compatible. Shortly after this announcement, AT&T made public that they would be amending their current policy which restricted usage of VoIP applications such as Skype on their Apple products to a plan which almost fully enables VoIP. Pressured from customers, VoIP providers and the Federal Communications Commission, AT & T lifted the ban because it was interpreted as obstructing competitors’ applications and features thus preventing net neutrality.

These two announcements are just the beginning.  A VoIP service can now save a company money both in the office and on the go. Here’s a quick explanation on major VoIP options for cell phones:

• Skype is one of the more basic VoIP applications allowing calls, instant messaging and less expensive international calls. Most smart phones allow Skype including AT & T products now after the announcement last week (before AT&T restricted Skype calls on Apple products to be available only in Wi-Fi zones). The application is free to download at the ITunes store or from the Skype website. International calls are relatively inexpensive but the fee per minute is dependent upon the country being called. Theoretically, AT&T customers could significantly lower their monthly allotted minutes if they were to use Skype for both local and international calls.

• Google Voice: AT&T has blocked Google Voice in the past but is now reconsidering it; this is probably in light of the FCC’s investigation and Verizon’s new contract with Google. Google Voice is different than other VoIP applications because of how it routes calls - through a new phone number that is assigned to the user to an existing number the user assigns - and the features it offers. Users create one number to accept all of their phone calls and then the user decides which calls should go where. For example, mother in-law calls always go to the house while office calls always go to the cell phone. This streamlines all of communications while still offering voice mail. Much like how Google launched Gmail, Google Voice is currently accessible by invitation.

• Vonage Mobile: Vonage offers free and inexpensive international calling (60 countries are free). Vonage Mobile is now available via a free application to IPhone, IPod Touch and BlackBerry users and operates much like Skype but the billing structure is different. With Apple products, calls made over a Wi-Fi connection are free while those outside of Wi-Fi will count toward monthly minutes used. AT&T customers will also pay a $25/monthly World Rate Plan to have access to the international calling benefits. BlackBerry’s will be charged for minutes used and the calls will not be made through Wi-Fi.

VoIP applications on cell phones with inexpensive long distance and international calling available on cell phones seems too good to be true but it is true… at least for now. The introduction of VoIP to cell phones could dramatically reduce any profits related to international calling and depending on service and application, VoIP could cut down on the monthly minutes used by callers. The huge profit losses associated with this will require a restructuring of the current US cell phone billing practices. It is probable that to compensate for these losses, the cell phone companies will increase data transfer charges or have a fee like Vonage for participating in the service. Until then, call all of your international contacts and celebrate, it could be free!

Some questions to consider that has not been widely discussed are: How will the cell phone providers deal with this increase in data transfers on their networks? Have they planned for this? How will this impact how VoIP services are provided in general? Comments?

Even if you missed Google’s official announcement last week you’ve probably heard by now: Google Chrome, an operating system designed to work seamlessly with the Google Chrome browser, will roll out in 2010.  Chrome is the company’s attempt to “re-think what operating systems should be-” it relies on cloud computing, and will be targeted at net books- inexpensive laptop computers purchased mostly for internet use.

It’s been a big year for Google.  In addition to announcing Chrome, they also unveiled Google Voice- by invite only, naturally- after purchasing the GrandCentral online phone service.  Google Voice isn’t quite as revolutionary as Chrome, though it has plenty of fans already.  Both Google Voice and Chrome are free, and provide most-if not more- of the features of competitors who charge for services.  A small business owner’s dream, right?  Cutting-edge services that offers professional functionality and easy user interface…for free?  Did Google just become your business’ new best friend?

Here’s an overview of these products and how they can have a big impact on your business:

Chrome- What Makes An Operating System So Important?
The operating system is one of the most basic components of your computer- chances are, you use a Microsoft OS if you’re using a PC (most business owners do).  The cost of the operating software alone can send the cost of a new computer into the thousands- you need to pay for the software itself, plus a license for each user.  Google Chrome, which uses cloud-computing technology, is free.

This means you can purchase net books, used, or refurbished computers- saving big on hardware costs.  Research company DisplaySearch has already reported a large surge in net books to retail outlets, anticipating that around 32.7 million will be sold next year- up from 16.4 million this year.

Using a cloud computing based OS (Operating System) is not only less expensive; it also allows more flexibility for business owners that travel or that work from the field.  You’ll have more data storage available at a less expensive cost, and are not tied to licensed products.  Ever tried to open a document that someone stored in WordPerfect?  A seamless OS/Browser experience eliminates this problem.  You can’t download WordPerfect or other Microsoft programs immediately, but you can install Google Docs or Open Office - two completely free office applications that create documents, spreadsheets, and presentations as easily as the Microsoft programs many of us are used to- in seconds.

Chrome isn’t available yet- it’s set to roll out at some point next year.  If you’re holding off making a computer purchase or upgrading operating software, waiting until then could be a good idea.

Voice- The Future of Phone Systems?
Voice is the new, Google-branded version of the GrandCentral technology the company purchased two years ago.  Google Voice works similarly to GrandCentral’s service model- you choose a phone number (the example on the Google blog shows how you can choose a number that spells out words) and program your own mobile devices or IP-enabled phones to ring when it is called, similar to most basic VoIP phone systems.

Voice has a host of cool features that are ideal for business owners: You can store voice messages and make calls using your computer, automatically transcribe voicemails for viewing as an email (enabling you to search emails and voicemails based on certain key words), and program certain phones to ring (office, home) based on who is calling.  Business owners who want a “mobile office” will be served well.  You’ll still need to pay for cell phone service in order to have your calls, texts, and data routed to your mobile device, similar to the way most other VoIP telephone systems operate.  Google Voice is currently available to past GrandCentral users and the general population by invitation only.

The New “Empire”?
Google’s motto, “Don’t be evil,” is often seen as sarcastic reference to Microsoft’s (the “evil empire”) industry domination.  A recent article in the Los Angeles Times pointed out this irony as Google introduces more and more products that are designed to work with other Google offerings.  Many worry about the security risks involved when one source is relied upon for every key business operation- especially when data is stored using cloud computing.  Time will tell if Google has plans to usurp Microsoft or even follow their established model for obtaining a customer monopoly over certain segments.  For now, enjoy the competition between the two- it seems to be producing better options for all small business owners.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a universal term for the technologies involved in the transfer of voice communication over an IP network.  For the most part, VoIP system users can make and receive calls just as they would from a traditional telephone network with only a home or business broadband internet connection.  Here are eight features that make VoIP attractive to the average user:

1. Price: With a basic service package for a VoIP phone system, you are provided with unlimited local and long distance calling within the United States (some offer unlimited calls to Canada and selected countries within Europe and Asia) for a low flat rate.
2. One Network:  Because VoIP systems use broadband connections you can run both your voice and data communications via one network which means you may be able to cut costs by getting rid of your traditional telephone connection.
3. Easy and Efficient:  VoIP systems are very simple to use.  For the most part, using a VoIP system is the same as using a traditional phone system—just pick up and dial.  The main difference between a VoIP and a traditional phone connection is the way the data is sent.  Since with a VoIP the data is sent via the internet, calls can be managed like data files on your computer as well as from a traditional hand phone set.
4. Features:  Many of the same paid features that the traditional phone companies offer are free with many VoIP services, such as voicemail, speed dialing, call forwarding, automatic redial, caller ID, caller ID block, and conference calling, as well as many other convenient features that are not available with a traditional phone network connection, such as the ability to forward voicemail to email; the ability to send data versions of voicemail messages, and the ability to manage address books and contacts from your computer.
5. Adding Lines:  By using a VoIP system, you are able to send out more than one telephone call over the same broadband internet connection which means that adding additional lines is simple and does not require an additional fee.
6. Fewer Location Restrictions:  With a VoIP system, only a broadband internet connection is needed; therefore, you are able to work from anywhere there is a fast enough internet connection allowing you fewer restrictions on your choice of calling environments.  Not only can you make calls from just about anywhere, you are also able to manage your VoIP system account from just about anywhere as well.  This means, those attractive features I listed earlier are able to be used on the go and not only in your home or office.
7. Compatibility and Integration:  Since VoIP uses one network, other internet services are compatible and integrate with your VoIP system, such as video conversation, message or data file exchange, internet gaming communication, and audio conferencing to name a few.  Also as mentioned in the features, you can also manage your address books and client information through your VoIP account from any computer with broadband internet.
8. Maintenance:  Overall, maintenance and troubleshooting are less complicated because of the simple fact that there are fewer devices to manage.

We have adapted our “on the go” lifestyle with our need for more efficient technology and the VoIP system is just one of the ways to make our lives simpler.  With the many attractive features of a VoIP system, it makes one wonder whether the traditional telephone service will soon become obsolete and instead we will all be conducting our communications on VoIP systems.

To learn more about VoIP systems, read Resource Nation’s buyer’s guide.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is the latest phone system technology. VoIP phone systems convert regular telephone calls into digital data delivering the voice communications over the Internet, or a packet-switched network. Essentially, when using a VoIP system, you are using the Internet to make telephone calls as opposed to a traditional phone line.

VoIP phone services continue to advance and are becoming highly reliable and popular. The key advantage to use a VoIP phone service over a traditional phone system is that it is cheaper. Other advantages include the convenience and portability of VoIP service and the advanced communication features that are available at no extra charge.

If you are a small business and need this service, visit Resource Nation’s VoIP phone service center.

Utilizing VoIP phone services rather than traditional phone systems can result in lower costs to individuals and businesses. For example, individuals or businesses with a broadband Internet connection (DSL or cable) can make PC-to-PC phone calls anywhere in the world at no charge. Or, if wanting to make a PC-to-phone connection, there is usually a minimal charge that is typically less than traditional phone service. In regards to business owners with multiple locations, if the business locations are connected to a Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN), they can share all features of the VoIP system without needing to set up separate phone systems in each location. Additionally, calls between long-distance business locations does not cost extra as it does with traditional phone service. This is particularly attractive for businesses with hefty monthly long distance charges due to calls between various company locations, or with international customers.

Another cost-saving benefit of using VoIP phone service relates to setting up new service. For example, when setting up a new office, whether it is a home office or a commercial office, VoIP can be less expensive than traditional phone installation. With VoIP, you will not have to run separate cabling for your phone system. This results in cheaper set-up and cabling fees.

In addition to saving money, VoIP phone systems are convenient and provide portability. For example, you can take your VoIP phone service with you wherever you go and make and receive phone calls anywhere there is a broadband connection. This is particularly attractive to frequent travelers and employees on the go.

Typically, VoIP phone services allow you to use technologically advanced communication features for free. Call forwarding, call waiting, voicemail, caller ID, simultaneous ringing across multiple phones, seamless call transfers, and three-way calling are some of the features generally available. Data such as pictures and documents are easy to use with VoIP and it also works with various Computer Telephony Integration (CTI) applications, such as call center management. These popular, and often times necessary, applications can prioritize incoming calls based on the caller’s identity. The application automatically brings up callers’ account information as the call is answered so the recipient of the call can easily and conveniently see who is calling.

With its low costs when compared to traditional phone services, the convenience and portability, and advanced communication features, VoIP phones benefit everyone from individuals to small offices to large enterprises.

If you’re someone who always ends up having to shell out extra money for your monthly cell phone bill because 1,000 anytime minutes just isn’t enough, there’s a solution for you (and, don’t worry, it does not involve talking less). VoIP (voice over internet protocol) phone systems no longer only pertains to the world voip business phone systems, and its advantages have now become available for the iPhone. If you’re familiar with VoIP phones, then you already know how cost-effective they can be for those who have to make frequent long-distance phone calls. Such savings can now be applied to cell phone use, and it is estimated by one company that offers VoIP for iPhones that people may be able to save up to 80% by using a VoIP application on their cell phone (Mobile Dev & Design).

The iPhone has taken the capabilities of small business phone systems to a whole new level. Using the technology of a VoIP phone system (using Internet protocol to send and receive calls), users can now place long-distance or even international calls without having to worry about the charges. Internet phone systems, such as VoIP, are a much cheaper alternative to sending calls on your iPhone the traditional way – using your minutes.

VoIP phone system companies now offer applications you can download to your iPhone which will give it the capabilities of ip phone systems. There are many applications available, however, some are more favored over others. Here are our favorites:

Truphone has been given high ratings by such publications as The Times, The New York Times, and Stuff magazine. This application is favored, in particular, because it allows users to search their iPhone’s contact list. In addition, calls are very clear, and can be made and received without delay.

Fring allows you to stay in touch with contacts on multiple networks, such as Skype, AIM, and MSN. iCall can be completely integrated with your iPhone, and works with a Wi-Fi connection. If you are using Wi-Fi and receive a call, you can easily switch over to your iCall application and save your minutes. Papaya and PennyTel are also VoIP applications for your iPhone.

You also have the option of using web-based VoIP applications (which is kind of like using a hosted VoIP system in your office). Instead of downloading the application to your iPhone, you can simply log-in to your account online. JAJAH is one of the top web-applications, and looks like your iPhone’s dialing pad. Talkety, Raketu, and iPhoneGnome are also web-based.

RingFree was one of the first VoIP services for your iPhone, and allows you to make calls using any VoIP service provider you choose. This application also allows you to make calls through an office phone system or virtual pbx.

Now that you can use VoIP technology with your iPhone, ‘unlimited’ minutes has a whole new meaning. VoIP business phone systems have the capabilities to be even more mobile. The iPhone has taken softphone technology to the next level, allowing calls to be placed all over the world without having to pay the high cost. This is great for business travelers who need to be able to stay in-touch with co-workers or loved ones.

Now you have more money for important things, like downloading the latest hit song to be your ringtone.

While you were sleeping the world changed. You might not know it for a few months or years, but new technologies were discovered or perfected, and those technologies will be refined into tools that will offer your business further growth and efficiencies. This process is almost as fixed now as sunrise and sunset. Those who deny technology has moved to the forefront of how businesses operate on a daily basis are being eclipsed by those embracing the advantages technology offers. To ensure your busy is the latter and not the former, ask yourself…

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“How can my business benefit from technology?”

The final answer to this question isn’t known until you actually implement a solution, but there are iterative answers that will lead to a positive outcome.

1. Know your business processes. This might seem redundant but it’s common that small companies know how to work the business but don’t know how the business works. It can be a time consuming process to document your procedures, policies, and work flows, but your business must drive technology decisions (not vice versa). Start with a simple outline of how you get from A to Z; that outline will be your guide when selecting the technology right for your business.

1. Prioritize your technology decisions. Your process outline will highlight areas of need for technology: phone systems, network security, e-mail, file sharing, and so on. Your goal with this step is to build a wish list of technology solutions (go crazy, wishes don’t cost anything) from which you can establish a schedule of which solutions you require now, later, and nice-to-have. And in all honesty, budget plays the most significant role in this phase; allot yourself a certain dollar amount and stick to that figure (give or take 10%). This will force you to focus on just that technology which will do the most for your business now and later.

1. Know what you don’t know. Don’t expect to know any technology by reading articles, books, or blogs. Technology is supposed to make your life simpler, but it takes complex technologies, such as advanced VoIP phone systems, to do that. Look in the mirror and tell yourself the truth about your technology aptitude. Now you’re ready to investigate the right solution for your business. This is where you Google to find resources; ask colleagues or competitors or friends for contacts; talk to manufacturer’s of the technology in which you’re interested. You’re looking for those who know the technology like you never will, but who will be able to translate that technology into benefits for your business. This is a leap-of-faith moment, but if the resource you find asks you more about your business than tells you about the solution, you’ve found the right resource. (Remember, business drives technology.)

1. Prepare the troops. Your employees will be the primary user of the phone systems, or any technology solution you implement. Let them in on the process as early as possible (outlining the process stage is about right). The input you’ll receive will be invaluable to determining a final selection. Once you have chosen a tool, put employees in charge of implementation (to a certain extent). You build rapport with the vendor this way that will be invaluable later when you require support or have follow up questions; you also empower employees to make the tool their own – it’s much easier to adjust technology than it is employees’ processes and habits. Your odds of a smooth and success install rise dramatically with a team-based approach.

This is a much abbreviated list of to do items when selecting a technology, but it touches on four vital points that will help ensure you benefit from implemented technologies.