We have heard quite a few rumors that the next generation Apple [AAPL] iPhone will come with the ability to make video calls. Details of a possible ‘Video Chat’ feature have already been found in the latest iPhone SDK 3.2.
Now the UK mobile provider O2, who initially had the exclusive rights to the iPhone, have included something interesting in one of their iPhone tariffs.
The O2 website shows the pricing for ‘UK video calls’ under the iPhone tariff as the same price as voice calls, which could indicate that the next generation iPhone will feature a video chat feature.
Implications of Video Calling on Mobile Networks
It is interesting to note that O2 intend to charge the same amount for video calls and voice calls. This pricing strategy is quite significant because video calls typically require more bandwidth compared to voice calls. Video calls involve the transmission of both audio and video data, which can be quite demanding on a mobile network. The fact that O2 is planning to charge the same rate suggests that they might be confident in their network’s ability to handle the increased data load.
However, this raises questions about the network’s capacity and reliability. Historically, there have been numerous complaints regarding the quality of O2’s data network, especially with the iPhone 3G and 3GS. Users have reported issues such as dropped calls, slow data speeds, and inconsistent connectivity. Introducing a video call feature could potentially exacerbate these issues if the network is not adequately prepared.
Preparing for the Future of Mobile Communication
The potential inclusion of video calling in the next generation iPhone represents a significant step forward in mobile communication technology. Video calling has been available on other platforms and devices for some time, but integrating it seamlessly into the iPhone ecosystem could make it more accessible and user-friendly for a broader audience.
For example, Apple’s FaceTime, which was introduced later, became a popular feature due to its ease of use and integration with other Apple devices. If the next generation iPhone includes a similar video chat feature, it could revolutionize the way people communicate, making video calls as commonplace as voice calls.
Moreover, the introduction of video calling could have broader implications for various sectors. In business, video calls can facilitate remote meetings and collaborations, reducing the need for travel and enabling more flexible work arrangements. In education, video calls can support remote learning and virtual classrooms, providing students with access to resources and instructors regardless of their location.
Additionally, video calling can enhance personal communication, allowing friends and family to stay connected in a more intimate and engaging way. For instance, grandparents can see their grandchildren grow up even if they live far apart, and friends can share experiences in real-time, making long-distance relationships more manageable.
Hopefully, O2 is getting ready for a video feature in the next generation Apple iPhone. It remains to be seen whether their network would hold up to such a feature, given the past complaints over the quality of their data network on the iPhone 3G and 3GS. If O2 can successfully support video calling, it could set a new standard for mobile communication and pave the way for other carriers to follow suit.
Head on over to the O2 website, and click on ‘View charges outside your tariff’ to see the details of the video chat.
via Pocket Lint
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