January 31, 2008... True mobile telephony is coming to VOIP.

A powerful IP-based mobile communication device has for many years been an unachieved dream, but now it looks like the dream is soon to be realized.

The auction for licenses in the 700 MHz band is reaching its objectives. Since last summer it was unknown whether this would ever happen because of restrictions that the FCC imposed such as open access and open device rules (to ensure that the radio spectrum would not be monopolized (or mothballed) by the Telecoms and other entrenched communications companies with deep pockets. Although the auction is not yet ended, the minimum price has now been surpassed, so it's reasonably certain that the new network will be built. Glenn Fleishman reports here.

The network is expected to be based on WIMAX, a new standard that can potentially be used to replace cellular "phones" and provide wireless broadband that is robust enough to carry VOIP effectively. The 700 MHz band will be especially suitable for long distance wireless networks in rural and otherwise harsh conditions. Frank Ohrtman reports here.

For Skype and independent SIP carriers, the success of the auction is crucial because now they can build devices to overcome the high latency conditions of 2G and 3G systems that are now extant in many communications markets. They won't need permission from the Telecoms to piggyback on their wireless broadband services, and they won't need to partner with services like iScoot to assist VOIP on "the last wireless mile" through the cellular network. In short, WIMAX services that run in these new frequencies will allow Skype and SIP carriers to extend their competitive advantages to 3.3 BILLION cell phones.