Vodafone, Orange Remove VoIP from the Nokia N95

IT Week is reporting that both Vodafone and Orange in the UK have removed the built in VoIP capabilities from the new Nokia N95 that recently began shipping. While users can still download and install third-party VoIP applications, utilizing the integrated VoIP services is not possible on branded handsets from these carriers.

The competition between traditional network operators and VoIP providers has been heating up of late, due in no small part to many of the latest handsets providing integrated support for VoIP solutions. VoIP services can threaten income streams of network operators, providing cheaper calls over data networks such as WiFi. Some carriers have embraced VoIP, such as 3 with its new X-Series deals, though most are banning VoIP services over their networks.

A spokesperson from Orange maintains that the move was made because there was not enough time to test the VoIP capabilities thoroughly, and that VoIP services could be enabled in future handsets. It is up for debate whether this is the case, or if the carriers had more sinister motives.