Recently, Sprint released its EVO smartphone. Like the Apple iPhone 4, it has a front-facing camera which means one can do a video conversation with this device.

While this looks nice, it does have its limitations, like with the release of any new product, the first version rarely includes everything we want in a new product. It usually has limited functions for 2 reasons—first they need to be sure it works and secondly, they want to be able to make improvements to the product in the future.

Right now, the EVO, in order to do video conversations, must use the software (or the app) that is available for it. There are two apps that can be used for video conversations. They are “Qik” and “Fring” which can be downloaded. They will only work with another EVO. It will not work with a Mac, or a Z-phone or a VP-200 yet.

Also, unlike the Apple iPhone, it will work with either a wifi connection or a 3G/4G connection. You will need to pay an additional $10 charge per month to bwe able to use the premium data plan which has no caps. The iPhone 4 can only work with a wifi connection.

But, the concept of being able to do a video conversation “on the go” is nice! It will not be long before we will be able to do video relay calls using a mobile or smartphone. Right now, the closest thing we have to a mobile phone is a Z4 on a netbook or a laptop. This will allow you to experience a mobile calling environment. Dr. Z has used it extensively in his travels and it works greatly and Dr. Z looks forward to the day when we can have a video conversation on a mobile phone with a cellular connection. This will be the day when we have full functional equivalency!

Dr. Z cares about your communication access.

Disclosure: Dr. Z is a contractor working with CSDVRS on several projects.