Samsung unveils femtocel to Extend Verizon's Network at Home usage

(image found on unwir3d)
Today, Verizon Wireless unveiled its new "Network Extender" for the public priced at $249.99 by Samsung. This device gives mobile users crystal clear calls when indoor with no additional monthly costs for usage outside of the initial unit purchase. This unit uses the broadband (minimum 300k) connection inside the house as a backhaul, which basically turns the cell call into a VoIP connection with a range coverage of 5,000 sq. ft. There is one drawback according to Verizon: "EV-DO is not supported, including those services that depends on it".

"Our new Network Extender device will bring the full benefit of the Verizon Wireless voice network to the small but important segment of customers who may experience a weaker signal in their homes because of geographic or structural conditions," said Jack Plating, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Verizon Wireless, in a statement. "Current and prospective customers have told us they want this, and we are responding to that demand. For those who have wanted to sign up for Verizon Wireless service but hesitated because of reception problems unique to their home location, this is the answer."

Not to bad of a deal considering usually company's want to nickel and dime a person for service after the initial hardware purchase. Its nice to see the consumer get a bit of a free-bee every now and then.

Verizon Debuts Femtocell NetworkExtender, AT&T Not Far Behind (unwire3D)

Samsung brings femtocell to Verizon (cnet news)

Verizon Adds Femtocell for Better Home Cell Calls (PCmag.com)

Can Ya Hear Me Now at Home - Verizon launches Linux Based VOIP hub

(image found on CnetNews)
Well it looks like Verizon has come aboard the home market now by giving us a taste of things to come by introducing the new Linux based Touch Screen VoIP phone for the home. This phone can send & recieve text, picture and video messages with unlimited SMS messages to anyone with a Verizon Wireless phone too. "It also provides additional Web-based services, such as an online calendar and a contact list that syncs with Microsoft Outlook. "

"VoIP phones and services are nothing new, but what makes the Hub stand out is the ability to use the touch screen to access Web services. The screen is filled with large icons that can be used to check the weather, update stock information, get directions, find local phone numbers, view movie trailers through V Cast, and access other services. "

All a person needs to do is simply plug it into a broadband router and pay a small monthly fee of $34.99 for service and they get unlimited calls anywhere in the US, Canada and Puerto Rico. The hub is scheduled to be available on February 1, 2009 for a cost of $199.99 after a mail-in rebate with an option to purchase additional hand sets (price hasn't been determined yet).
(image found in information week website)

"Verizon representatives say they aren't trying to compete against Vonage or any other voice over IP service. Instead, they're trying to offer their wireless customers an alternative to home phone service while also providing added features and benefits.

"We are really targeting people who are cutting their traditional landlines," Willsey said. "People are spending between $50 and $60 a month on that service. And we see wireless and voice over IP as an economical alternative that also offers more features and more flexibility.""

Verizon Launches Touch-Screen VoIP Hub (Information Week)
Verizon Wireless Launches Internet Phone (Cnet news)
Verizon Launches 'Hub' VOIP Phone (PCMag.com)
Verizon Hub reinvents the home phone(techradar.com)