The FCC gives VoIP some love, and Free Publicity

Historically, businesses in the United States have rarely been a fan of government involvement when it comes to dealing with their own companies or industries. The VoIP industry may be an exception to the rule. With the recent activities of the FCC, VoIP providers may love the idea of government activity in their industry.

It started with the recent move by the FCC to expand the availability of broadband, in turn creating a larger market for potential VoIP customers, and now the FCC has gone even farther. On the same day that the FCC released a report on the market competition between traditional landlines and VoIP services, they posted on Twitter that using VoIP services such as Skype while on international trips will save you money.

This all took place after the FCC released an educational program to help the American people save money while going on trips. With summer now here in the US, many people will be leaving on vacations, and the FCC has decided to help with the bill by giving out a little knowledge.

Chief of the FCC's International Bureau, Mindel De La Torre, stated that "People can become savvy travelers before their trips overseas by checking with their wireless providers to learn about international calling and data fees for their mobile phone plans, a little preparation and education can save consumers a bundle."

These actions taken by the FCC are most likely part of the government’s attempt to help relieve the burden of its citizens during these harsh economic times. By spending less on their phone bills, people will be more willing to go out and spend money elsewhere, in turn helping the economy.

Although unorthodox, and being decried by some companies, VoIP providers can only grin at the recent free publicity by the federal government.

Andrew Sale is a writer based in San Diego, California. He writes extensively for an online resource that provides expert advice on purchasing and outsourcing decisions for small business owners and entrepreneurs.