iPhone News Updated

NetTalk iPhone app offers free US/Canada calls

NetTalk.com, a low-cost VOIP competitor to services such as Skype, Vonage and MagicJack, is offering a free app through iTunes that enables iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad users the chance to call phone numbers throughout the US and Canada at no cost — even using a conference call function. The service can make the calls using Wi-Fi, 3G or even EDGE networks without using cellular plan minutes.

While the mobile app (also available for other smartphones) is free and requires only a free account signup to use and make calls, it cannot receive calls, be assigned to a “real” phone number or use the full range of services the company offers. For that, customers can opt to buy the NetTalk Duo, a small VOIP kit that replaces the older, bulkier boxes used by companies like Vonage and connects directly to a router with no computer required, drawing power either from a standard electrical connection or a mini-USB port. The box and service costs $70 for the first year, $30/year thereafter, and like other VOIP services can be used with conventional “landline” phones.

The free NetTalk mobile app includes free 411 directory assistance, free conference calling, free tech support and imports contacts from the iPhone’s Contacts app. It can even record conversations. The company promises that low cost international dialling and automatic linking of NetTalk Duo calls to your smartphone and other services are coming soon.

[Thanks: http://www.electronista.com]

Apple May Take Shackles Off European iPhones

Apple is creating an iPhone SIM card capable of working with multiple carriers in Europe, a move that would make the carriers a mere afterthought, according to GigaOm. The company would sell its famous handset in European markets with the non-carrier specific SIM card, thereby turning the Apple Store and Apple.com into a one-stop shop where you buy the iPhone and decide on carrier service at the same time.

The rumored plan, which is a similar model to Google’s plan for the Nexus One, would give customers the chance to purchase an unsubsidized iPhone sold at full price.

Removable or baked-in SIM?

GSM-based handsets typically use a removable SIM card containing carrier-specific data that makes your cellphone work on a particular network. But GigaOM’s report says the new SIM, made by digital security firm Gemalto, would be “integrated” into the iPhone, which suggests that it would not be removable.

Regardless, the fact that the SIM is not carrier-specific means users may be able to easily switch between carriers depending on which one is offering the better deal. Instead of switching out a physical SIM card as European users do now, they would likely make the switch via iTunes or perhaps directly through Apple or their new carrier.

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