September 9th, 2006
ROK Viper free mobile VoIP doesn't rock-yet
After reading reviews on Tech Digest and Engadget Mobile, I was tempted to try the free worldwide mobile-to-mobile VoIP service called ROK Viper.
The ROK Viper software allows users to connect compatible handsets to a broadband connection via Bluetooth.
That way, see, your cell calls travel over the Internet rather than over your carrier’s cell network.
When I downloaded and configured ROK Viper, however, I was very disappointed to discover that it is only compatible with a few models of Nokia phones. No one else.
I once had a Nokia cell, but now I have a BlackBerry.
I’d love to try ROK, but I can’t.
ROK says they will be compatible with up to 100 handsets in the next few months. OK, fair enough.
But why, ROK, are you rolling out the service now if it isn’t even close to gadget-ubiquitous?
I could see you calling this a beta, but nowhere do I see that designation.
Dumb move, ROK. Just like preemies should not be taken out of the incubator too early, your product is not ready. Compatibility with four models of one brand isn’t "ready" in my book.
For now, ROK, I’d have to say you don’t ROK
Russell Shaw is an enterprise computing journalist, analyst and author based in Portland, Oregon. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations.
