The software, known as iCall allows for incoming call notification even when the application is not running.

This signals a lifting of the 3G VoIP calling restrictions which Apple imposed on iPhone apps.

Rather than running Skype as a seperate application for Symbian, Nokia will be integrating Skype with the built-in address book to allow simple and direct calling/answering of Skype contacts.

The Nokia N97 handset provides both 3G and 802.11b/g WiFi connectivity so owners should be able to use Skype wherever they are.

Skype is a proprietary peer-to-peer VoIP protocol and as such can only communicate with other Skpe devices. There is no word yet as to whether the Nokia N97 or other future Nokia handsets will be supporting any open VoIP protocols such as SIP which would allow for greater interoperability.

Neo Freerunner does not yet have a VoIP application but with it’s built-in WiFi and linux based, open software architecture, it looks like it will only be a matter of time before a SIP compliant application is ported. Telepathy, a framework which allows IM and Voice over IP integration looks like a prime candidate.

The Neo Freerunner is designed with sensitive corporate environements in mind. The lack of camera and the possibility of a full code audit should put minds at ease in the board-room.

Specifications:

Connectivity:

• GSM
• Bluetooth 2.0
• GPRS
• AGPS
• WiFi (in final version)
• USB 1.1 slave and host
• 2.5-mm audio jack

Memory

• 128 MB SDRAM
• 256 MB NAND flash

Display

• 2.8 in. VGA (480×640) TFT

Dimensions

• 120.7mm × 62mm × 18.5mm

The Neo Freerunner is available now in North America, Europe and Asia with a MSRP of $399 US.

Jajah allows you to call a special number from a normal landline to make a long-distance connection using Voice Over IP. The new localisation of the service in Eastern Europe will provide a call-in number for those countries.

The Jaxtr service appears to involve adding a widget to your website which then allows your website visitor to call you directly, send you a voicemail using VoIP or send an SMS to your mobile phone.

Jaxtr also offer reduced-cost distance/international calling services.

iCall allows you to route your incoming cellular network calls to your iPhone via VoIP when you are connected to a WiFi hotspot. You can also send and receive VoIP calls over WiFi.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Watch the demonstration video for more information.

This will enable others to develop new applications and add-ons for the fring platform.

The fring platform supports mobile devices such as the Symbian Series 60, Sony Ericsson UIQ, Windows Mobile 5 & 6 and the iPhone.

As a network, fring also integrates with Skype, AIM, Twitter, Google Talk and the industry standard SIP protocol.

The Snom M3 allows for multiple DECT wireless handsets with full-color graphical displays to make and receive SIP calls over any compliant network.

The Snom M3 system involves a base-station which provides network and control facilities including a web confiiguration interface. Up to 8 individual wireless DECT handsets can be connected to each base-station. The base-station can handle up to three simultaneous calls.

Product video:

Click here to view the embedded video.

The Snom M3 is to be available in the USA as of June 2008.

Listed and reviewed in the article are Nokia’s own Gizmo, Truphone, EQO, Skype, fring and Yeigo
.

The article updates an earlier review of S60 Voice over IP applications.

Google have previously stated that they do not intent to produce their own hardware, rather they intend to develop the Linux based ANDROID mobile phone software platform for deployment on partner’s devices.

There is further speculation about whether some devices might be available around Christmas time.