Google Challenges Skype With Voice Desktop Application

Internet giant Google seeks to spread out into Skype’s territory by soon releasing a voice desktop application, but just when the actual release date will be remains uncertain. Gizmo5 By Google, was sent to tech magazines and blogs July 1 by Google in order to help generate insider buzz. Google employees have been testing the product since April.This is a more advanced version of Google Voice, launched June 22.

Will They or Won’t They?

Google insiders state that Google co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin were at odds over getting into Internet phone software instead of sticking with applications to the Google browser or toolbar. Arguments about the company’s focus are creating internal tensions.

This has lead to an online petition begging Google to release the soft phone product anyway. The petition began July 2 and can be found at giveusgvdesktop.com, where over 509 electronic signatures have been logged.

What the Fuss Is About

Google Voice is quickly downloaded onto a browser. The feature than produces a standard digital phone keypad, where a caller can click in a number to dial another desktop or a mobile phone. Any incoming callers are identified. Google Voice also has tabs to list the desktop’s calling history and another for contact information.

When Google Voice is released, it will be Skype’s biggest competitor. Skype’s internet phone service has over 500,000 members. Google bought the company Gizmo5 in November, fueling speculation that they would soon release a Skype-like VoIP application.