Ok. Debate time. Can Google Voice make Skype redundant? The two free services are not quite the same, but let's face it, ultimately, they offer the same service - the ability to make calls using the Internet.

So Skype is way popular, it is practically the de facto standard for VoIP with millions of users across the world. If you make Internet calls, chances are you are using the service to call relatives abroad, or even run your small business. Skype offers free Skype-to-Skype calling internationally. No Skype? No problem. For a small fee, you can make calls to landlines and mobile phones.

Google Voice is a call-management system that allows you to forward calls to one number, screen callers, check voicemail like email and make calls to US numbers for free (at least for the rest of the year).

big difference

To me, one big difference between the two services is the easy of access to US phone lines. If you have a GMail account (and really, who doesn't), you can dial from right inside the browser window. That means no third part application to install, no new software to launch, no number to look up ... just the ability to start typing a name and the service makes the call.

Sound good? Well, don't get too excited. Google Voice is technically limited to US-based customers. You may not be able to access the service in Jamaica. Still in our Star offices here in Kingston, I have been able to access the service by using a US address. Google doesn't seem to be checking my IP or using geotagging features to verify the address I use. So, it should work for you too.

Google Voice free calling is limited to numbers in North America. All other calls attract a fee.

excellent call quality

Both services offer excellent call quality, but Skype offers integrated videoconferencing. As they say, "video killed the radio star". When it comes to video calling, Skype is king. There is just something about being able to look into a person's eyes when you are talking to them that make a conversation more productive.

And this is where we can debate. Some will say that Google also offers videoconferencing.

Technically, yes. Google's IM service, Google Talk, not Google Voice, offers video. It can get confusing, but talk is a different service all together.

So, what is the verdict? Which is the best service to have and use? Well, I say ... both. They're both free to use, so why not. Use Skype for video calling and Skype-to-Skype calls to friends who have also installed the application. Use Google Voice to call friends, family and business associates in the US who are not tethered to their computer and still use a 'traditional' phone for their communications.

See, this is why I love tech. It's all about choice.

Tech Glitch: If I change my BB, will I loose all my data, Jodi asks.

Tech Fix: Using the Blackberry Desktop Manager with the built-in Switch Devise Wizard, you can back up all the data on your old Blackberry and restore everything on your new handset. Nothing will be lost. To finish, call your network provider to let them know of the change so that can update RIM and all your Internet and BBM services will be seamlessly re-routed to your new phone.

Have a Tech Glitch of your own? Send your questions to: techiteasy@carlettedeleon.com