PlusNet exposes VoIP plans

What an eyeful

PlusNet - the AIM-listed ISP - is the latest firm to jump on the VoIP bandwagon after confirming yesterday that it plans to unveil a broadband telephony service shortly. The Sheffield-based ISP said its PlusTalk VoIP service is based on open standards enabling its punters to communicate for free with other open standards-based services.

And for those calls that incur charges, PlusNet remains confident its tariffs will be among the lowest, saying in a statement yesterday: "PlusNet expects to offer a range of call packages at market leading prices."

Even though PlusNet's announcement that its VoIP service will be unveiled soon, El Reg understands that it will go live tomorrow.

Even before the product has been unveiled the ISP has already cut charges amid reports of increased competition in the rapidly-expanding VoIP sector, with BT planning to reduce charges and Dixons to launch its Freetalk service this week too.

So, the cost of PlusTalk Evening & Weekend package will now cost £2.99 a month - which includes 3,500 free minutes and 15 MB voicemail allowance - instead of £3.99. PlusTalk Anytime - which includes 4,000 free minutes and 25 MB voicemail allowance - will cost £4.99 a month. Originally, it was priced at £7.99 a month.

PlusNet is even introducing a PAYG VoIP service as well, although the company's VoIP services are not available as standalone products and can only be used by PlusNet broadband customers. ®