12 September 2007
A Swedish company has come up with a way of using peer-to-peer technology to allow mobile users to make free calls.
TerraNet is trialling a mini network of phones without the need for base stations, with the hope that it may be able to revolutionise communication in developing countries.
Handsets work as peers, routing data or calls to other people in the network, over a range of about one kilometre.
When one TerraNet phone is turned on it searches for other phones within this distance, at which point it connects and extends the radio network.
Speaking to BBC World Service Digital Planet programme, TerraNet founder Anders Carlius said that a safari in Tanzania in 2002 inspired the creation of TerraNet.
"I started thinking, 'couldn't we get phone-to-phone without needing any other equipment, and actually have real voice communication, like a telephone call, between units?'," he explained.
"If you look at places like Africa, South America, India, China, we're really for the first time giving people a digital identity.
"People are able to talk to other people using a phone number.
"With our stuff, we are giving the low-end man or woman the chance to talk locally for free."
Mobile phone manufacturer Ericcson has invested £3 million in the technology, Mr Carlius added.
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