Gladstone Taylor, Gleaner Online Writer

This Dell model, the XPS M1210 notebook, can be configured for Skype Internet communication software. - File

The opening up of the mobile market seven years ago with the entry of players like Digicel, consumers were presented with real choice.

This week, we are taking a look at telephony from the vantage point of the web.

For decades, conventional tele-phony dominated Jamaica, but with the opening up of the mobile market seven years ago with the entry of players like Digicel, consumers were presented with real choice.

Here are a few Web-based telephony solutions, commonly referred to as voice over Internet protocol (VOIP), that empower the consumer even more.

Skype

(http://skype.com)

With Skype, you can make PC to PC, landline and mobile calls from your computer. This service is free to other people on Skype and a cheap alternative when calling landlines and mobiles around the world.

Skype account rates start as low as US$10.

It is a service you should investigate if you make many international calls.

To make full use of Skype, you will need a high-speed Internet connection, at least 256 kbps. Fairly inexpensive Internet packages are available from most Internet service providers.

A pocket PC version of Skype is also available for persons constantly on the move, provided you have a mobile Internet connection available.

Google Talk

(http://www.google.com/talk/)

This Google-developed software offers PC to PC-based calling only.

It allows parties unlimited talk time, as long as both parties meet the requirements of having the Google Talk software installed; a Google account to use the software; a fast-enough Internet connection, a microphone and speakers.

Google Talk was designed to be a value-added service in the Google network of applications such as gmail, which integrates with Google Talk.

Google Grandcentral

(http://www.grandcentral.com/)

Under this service, Google provides you with one number that you can tie to any phone number you choose.

For example, if you do not want to publicise your work, home or cell number, you could instead give out your Grandcentral number.

When the Grandcentral number is dialed, all the numbers you tied to it will simultaneously accept the call.

The Web application also allows call forwarding.

In the event that you need to leave a location, but wish to continue your phone conversation, the service allows you to forward the call from your landline to a cellphone.

Grandcentral is not available worldwide, and it may come with a price tag. If your lifestyle requires you to always be a phone call away, it may be a valuable investment for you to make.

However, to date, the nature of Google's business model has generally been to give away the good stuff for free.

gladstone.taylor@gleanerjm.com