Zer01 Now Live

Zer01 today kicked off the launch of its self-titled Zer01 Mobile cellphone service. Roughly as promised, the service uses custom software and a unique network trick to funnel both data and voice through a VoIP system rather than the usual network, bypassing most of the costs associated with running a usual cellular plan. To exploit the uncapped data, it now has built-in access to NetMovies downloads from the company's front-end app.

Service starts in July and will initially work most readily with Windows Mobile devices. Unlocked BlackBerries and most Android phones will also be supported, the company says. However, initial plans to include iPhones appear to have been delayed or scrapped as no mention is made of its own software. Zer01 has previously told Electronista that using its network with an iPhone would require a jailbreak to load the necessary software. It's not yet known if this is still ongoing or how close it may be.

Although unusually not mentioned in the release, access is expected to cost about $70 per month for both voice and data within the US. Adding $10 to the regular rate adds international calling for 40 countries.

By Electronista Staff