My Cart - “Here, take my television number” – not something you would expect to hear from a new acquaintance, but with Skype’s latest announcements about VoIP (voice over internet protocols) for your HDTV, it could soon become a common occurrence.
VoIP is a collective term for a technology that allows your computer or any internet enabled device to transmit voice communication over data networks such as the internet. VoIP has been around for some time now, with the groundbreaking Skype allowing PC users to make free video calls from their computer or laptop with little more than a £15 webcam. You can even buy Skype-enabled mobile phones, which use the 3G network to carry your call to anyone in the world for no charge. Now several manufacturers will be launching devices which give you similar functionality through your television.
Really, with the capability to make video calls to anyone in the world for free, you might be forgiven for wondering how it has taken so long to integrate this technology in to something people can enjoy as a family or group of friends in their lounge. What is important is the from very soon you will be able to use your LG LCD TV in a way that has been the preserve of science fiction films for decades. The exact details such as price and ease of use are still to be discovered, but the thought of turning your LG 42 inch TV from the football to arranging a post-match pint with your mates at the touch of a button will leave many consumers panting with anticipation. Others will just relish not having to heave themselves off the sofa to answer the phone. The future is here, and it’s lazy.
