T-Mobile Android phones get official Wi-Fi calling
updated 10:30 am EDT, Wed October 6, 2010
T-Mobile Wi-Fi calling to reach myTouch, Defy
T-Mobile this morning officially added its frequently rumored Wi-Fi Calling support to Android phones. Starting with the Motorola Defy and the new myTouch, the feature will give much of the same support and let callers use their local Wi-Fi to make calls or handle SMS messages in poor reception areas indoors. The Kineto-developed technology isn't true UMA calling, however, and won't jump to GSM or 3G if the caller leaves Wi-Fi range.
The approach can still use regular voice minutes without a plan, but it can work with most any Wi-Fi router and doesn't require a presence in the US. T-Mobile hasn't said if those calling on Wi-Fi outside the US will still face roaming charges.
Both the Defy and the myTouch only have indefinite plans to launch before the holidays, but T-Mobile has promised that more Android phones will get Wi-Fi Calling support in the near future. Some BlackBerry and Symbian devices already have the option.
