Mobile phones and advanced handsets like the Blackberry devices were expected to make computers redundant soon but now it may be the turn of laptops and desktops to turn the tables.

The decision to make internet telephony legal allowing users to make regular telephone calls from our computers has upset the mobile phone companies.

“We are extremely unhappy as there should be a level playing field when so many applicants are waiting to get telecom licenses they allow ISPs to enter this sector. They should refund our license fees,” said TV Ramachandran, Director General, COAI.

What is adding to their problems is that one can even make long distance calls through the internet and even allot them a specific number series just like any other mobile operator.

So you will not only be able to make calls from the computer but also receive them. No wonder companies providing internet services are elated.

“When people will find that prices have been reduced by 15 per cent to 20 per cent, they are going to increase it in a grand manner,” said Rajesh Charia, President, ISPAI.

The TRAI recommendations are now going to be debated at the office of the telecom regulator but its not going be easy to arrive at a decision.

Because the mobile operators are set to oppose the recommendations, the big question before DoT will be whether to keep the consumer interests on top or listen to the big telecom players.