WiFi VoIP Phone Roundup 2009

With both UTStarcom and Hitachi Cable exiting the WiFi VoIP handset market in 2008, some new players have entered the space and continue to progress the technology. Many of the “1st generation” WiFi SIP handsets suffered performance issues such as poor battery life and AP roaming capabilities. As a new generation of WiFi VoIP phones emerge, many of these inadequacies are being addresses, making VoWiFi a viable option for many users who require mobility as part of their IP communications solution.

Korean manufacturer Unidata Communication Systems, Inc. is offering several new WiFi based VoIP handsets in the US market.

Unidata WPU-7700

The Unidata WPU-7700 features 802.11A/B/G connectivity, a color TFT display, WEP and WPA encryption and support for G.729a and G.722 Wideband audio codecs.

Unidata SQ3000

Unidata is also set to release the new SQ-3000, which in addition to VoIP also supports H.264 video calling over 802.11a/b/g WiFi networks.

The Linksys (Cisco) WIP310 operates in the 2.4GHz band, supports 802.11b/g and the latest VoIP SIP protocols. The large, full-color high resolution display features an intuitive user interface enabling users to easily and quickly configure the handset with network access using WiFi Protected Setup (WPS).

Quickphones QA-342

With much improved battery performance, the QuickPhones QA-342 boasts 14 Hour Talk Time and 7 Day Standby. The QA-342 includes Battery, Charger and Desktop Charging Cradle. A recent firmware upgrade has added G.729a codec and Wireless AP roaming support to this popular and affordable WiFi VoIP phone.

Pirelli DP-L10

The Pirelli DP-L10 is a dual-mode GSM/SIP WiFi handset, combining tri-band capabilities with the support of SIP VoIP via an integrated WLAN 802.11g interface. The DP-L10 works like a standard cell phone – any GSM SIM card will work- and cell features such as MMS, e-mail and WAP browsing both over a cellular and a WLAN interface. Whether at home or in office, the DP-L10’s WiFi capability allows customers to enjoy services and applications at higher speeds and lower cost.

Polycom Spectralink 8002

The Polycom SpectraLink 8002 Wireless Telephone is a cost-effective, business-grade mobile telephony solution for small to medium-sized businesses. Using the Wi-Fi Alliance’s WMM QoS standard, the SpectraLink 8002 Wireless Telephone interoperates with most consumer-grade and SMB access point infrastructure devices, alleviating the need to install and maintain additional hardware while still providing enterprise-level security and quality voice. In keeping with the needs of the market segment, the SpectraLink 8002 is packaged in complete, ready-to-install bundles that include a single or dual charger, battery pack and a power supply.