Nintendo DS To Allow Free VoIP Calls

sm4kxd writes "Gamespot is reporting that the Nintendo DS will use "built-in wireless 802.11b networking capabilities to offer voice-over-IP chat--in effect, allowing gamers to use the DS to make free phone calls at wireless network hotspots." There's also mention of a headset, so you won't look ridiculous while doing so." The article doesn't have much more information, but the "in effect" seems important; this may only allow unit-to-unit conversations, not VoIP calls to the regular telephone network.

Comments

I need more though

[Stevyn]

I still need an online music store, place to get stock quotes, a free webmail account...and something else. I can't put my finger on what it is. Oh yeah, instant messenging through AOL. Alright, now we got a hot product.

Re:I need more though

[The Other White Boy]

heh, i read that last bit as 'Hot Pocket' for some reason and got terribly confused.

This is good

[zoloto]

and not subject to regulatory agencies. very nice, and useful as well! just think about being able to communicate with a useful tool (and toy) and you're gaming or in range of someone elses public network!

not that I'll be buying one yet, however - this idea is very cool.

Re:This is good

[gcaseye6677]

I'm sure that if this actually works, Asscroft will make them add wiretapping capabilities. And if the telecom monopolies have their way, Universal Service Fees as well. And then it's just an overhyped telephone. We can't have people making things that are too revolutionary, now can we?

Re:This is good

[v1x]

>> not subject to regulatory agencies That will likely change within the next few years. The situation is analogous to taxation of online purchases. Sooner or later, it will reach a threshold so that governments would start considering legislation to somehow collect taxes or regulate that sector somewhat. According to an eweek article, some states are already moving in that direction.

IT'S THE *OPINION* OF AN *ANALYST*

[mcc]

Note to the 98% of the Slashdot populace who does not read the article: Actually, no, in fact, all that Gamestop is reporting is that an analyst named "Boris Markovich" has the THEORY that the Nintendo DS will support voice over IP. There is however no support for this theory whatsoever.

Nintendo representatives have publically stated they think it would be neat if there were a DS web browser that used the DS's built-in wireless ethernet to connect to the internet; however this does not mean that such a browser will ever actually occur, to my knowlege they've said nothing whatsoever about internet voice chat.

I thought phones were getting smaller.

[TheOtherAgentM]

Soon we will be back to the 80's brick cell phone.

Sounds pointless without gaming...

[tktk]

I know it's still speculation but multiplayer over IP better be there also. If it's only VOIP, then the DS is mimicking the functions of a highly crippled cell phone. Why would I use my DS to call my friend on his DS even if it were free? We'd both have to be in range of a free access point, or have some subscription to a paid AP, and the DS would have to be standby mode to receive calls. My friends and I already have cell phones. If I was concerned about the price of making a call with my cell phone, I probably wouldn't have a DS.

I'm getting tired of this 'featuritis' where both Sony and Nintendo are adding features like mad. I just want new portable system to play games, play games wirelessly, and play games over IP via Gameboy Live or PS Live.

Re:That's not likely to come from Nintendo

[BW_Nuprin]

Nintendo's press footage at E3 showed the DS being used for many other purposes besides games. People taking notes, people chatting with each other via some kind of whiteboard program, etc. While I still doubt the DS will be able to make VoIP calls for free and all that that entails, I tend to think that the "only about games" attitude is merely Gamecube centric.