SLOUGH, U.K. -- O2 today announces its plans to offer VoIP technology to customers through the launch of O2 Connect, a trial mobile service that allows smartphone users to use voice and text services over WiFi networks from their normal mobile number to any UK mobile or landline number. O2 Connect will initially be available on iOS and Android smartphones and will subsequently roll out to other devices.

“This trial will allow us to explore the potential of delivering VoIP services to customers. We hope to launch O2 Connect as a commercial service in 2012.” explained Richard Porter, Head of Consumer Mobile Products, O2 in the UK.

A limited number of people will be able to take part in the trial to assess how this type of service can be deployed to customers as well as participating in the development of new features.

The trial will commence in October 2011 by invitation only and will include O2 consumer and business customers. The trial will also be extended to attendees at Wired 2011.

Telefónica UK Ltd.