Google users are very well versed with it's GTalk application which they use to chat with their online friends. This Wednesday, Google launched a new VoIP plug-in for the GTalk users. It will have a small dial pad to launch a VoIP call. Though the service is limited to US GMail users it will be rolled out to other users around the world very soon. There were rumors that it was going to be out as a desktop application but we can't believe in rumors till the official news is out.
We all were expecting some kind of such news since November 2009 when Google took over the VoIP company Gizmo 5.
Some of the people who used the new VoIP interface were quite satisfied with the quality of calls. The calls were loud and clear. Though some heard garbled voices and a persistent high pitch buzz that was noticeable but that did not distract from the meat of the call. Even if the overall experience was just above average, we can consider using the application as it is still in its beta stage.
The plug-in offers various features in the GTalk application such as a dial pad on the bottom right of the screen, one tab which shows your call history. Making calls is as easy as you call on your phone. Just dial and talk to whoever you want. Since this feature is integrated with your Google address book, you can also type a contact's name to get their number to appear and then call them.
Releasing the VoIP feature, Google has given it's competitors like Skype, Windows Live Messenger, Yahoo Messenger a tough competition. Adding free local calls will be attractive to users who can easily launch a voice call from within GMail.
According to Google's calling rates, calls cost 2 cents a minute to landline in the UK and France and 6 cents a minute to India. Google said it has no plans to raise rates beyond 2010, though the company will see if it grosses enough on international calls to continue supporting free calls to the US and Canada.
Sean Tribianni
