CNET has reported that Google is currently testing out a web-based calling feature that will launch straight from Google Chat. Unlike Google Voice, which allows users to transcribe voicemails into emails and call multiple lines from one phone number, this would be a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) feature; allowing users to make and receive calls from users on their Google Chat list – much like Skype.
It is unclear as to whether or not this will be a revamping of Google Voice or a seperate entity entirely. It could, however, be the culmination of plans by Google to integrate Gizmo5 – a web-based VoIP client they acquired last year – into their communications arsenal.
No official annoucement has been made by Google, but the buzz generating around this story is already building fast.
the problem is that its going to make the platform just annoying if you are running Gmail as your primary email platform and they enable you to get interrupted by calls when you are focusing on emails…
if i want to call i use skype or my mobile, please stop adding functionality most people won't use!