Canadian wireless carrier Rogers Communications (News 
- Alert) has launched a new app called “One Number”, allowing its customers to use a computer as their mobile handset. That means they can now use their computer for talking, chatting and sending text messages, all using their Rogers cell phone number.
The service, however, doesn’t integrate other applications such as Skype or BlackBerry (News - Alert) Messenger, nor can it be enabled on tablets.
The Canadian wireless giant says it is the first operator in the world to launch such a service to customers. It goes on to say that the service is a step closer to bringing unified communications services to customers.
“By extending your Rogers wireless number to your computer, we’re transforming and simplifying how Canadians connect with family and friends,” said John Boynton, executive vice president of Rogers Communications.
The interesting feature of the app is it allows customers to store texts, calls and emails (Gmail and Yahoo! Mail only for now) into one inbox and synch contact numbers either on their handsets or on operator’s website.
Following the launch of this app, Rogers’ customers can switch wireless calls to their computer, or vice versa, with the click of a button. More than anything else, they can use their computers to call any Canadian number, from anywhere for free.
Analysts say the service will be a hit with customers because Canadians already spend more time on the Internet than any other nation.
“Rogers One Number users and outgoing text messages sent to Canadian wireless numbers are free of charge, even if you are in the US or an international destination,” the operator stated in a press release.
In other news, to continue bringing more speed and choice to Canadians, Rogers Communications recently announced the addition of two new Long Term Evolution (LTE (News - Alert)) devices that will offer the fastest speeds in Canada, as well as more LTE plan options.
Narayan Bhat is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To read more of Narayan’s articles, please visit his columnist page.Edited by
Jennifer Russell
