ANACOM - National Communications Authority launches today a public consultation to asses the market on matters which should frame the provision of voice services over the IP technology (VoIP). The regulator has submitted to consultation a set of preliminary views, among which the opening of a new numbering range "30", that accommodates the provision of general nomadic services, should be stressed. Under the law, the use of a geographic numbering (numbering range "2") is restricted to a fixed location and should be ensured by the VoIP provider. The need to open a new numbering range for nomadic services thus arises.
With this procedure, ANACOM aims to define the framework for the provision of VoIP services, deemed to contribute towards a larger penetration of broadband access services and to increase competition in retail markets. The VoIP technology, in fact, is expected to bring about direct and significant benefits to users, as it may promote the provision of innovative services, at better prices.
In addition to the establishment of the new range "30" in the National Numbering Plan, the regulator considers also that all providers of VoIP services, including nomadic services, on national territory, should ensure call routing to emergency services (112).
The consultation includes a set of issues on interconnection, network integrity and security, quality of service and information to be provided by VoIP service providers to end users, namely as regards numbering use, number portability, access and possible restrictions to emergency services and quality of service.
The regulator intends to ensure a regulatory approach to VoIP consistent with the regulation aims provided for in the law, namely with the promotion of competition, the encouragement to the development of innovative, diversified and quality services, the protection of user interest (highlighting in particular the guarantee of the provision to users of correct, relevant and up-to-date information), and the effective use of numbering resources.
The VoIP has raised several questions related to these matters, and for this reason the regulator has decided to launch this consultation to gather contributions from the market, for a 30-working-day period of time, in order to enhance an appropriate regulatory approach.
The voice services over the IP technology (VoIP), which may present characteristics similar to those of the traditional telephone service - possibility to make and receive calls, as well as to access emergency services -, are now a reality in Portugal, contributing towards an increased competition and the diversity of services.
These services may be used at a fixed location, where the terminal is at the same location or address at all times, or in a nomadic fashion, where it is possible to connect the terminal in different locations throughout the country.
Consult:
- VoIP and opening of associated numbering range https://www.anacom.pt/render.jsp?contentId=1092219
