Hookflash for iPad is like a softphone application on steroids featuring group video conferencing, group messaging, and participant profiles automatically created from information derived from business and social networks. You can also think of Hookflash as a "business" version of Skype, which tends to be more "consumer" focused.
Users can set up group video calls with Hookflash from the iPad with a simple swipe of the finger. They can also exit and re-enter conference calls while the other participants continue to interact. One really cool feature is that a user can start a second group call, and then merge the two calls together. It's using an open peer-to-peer system they developed called OpenPeer.
They are offering this as a fremium model where some features are free, while you pay for others. Pricing hasn't been disclosed, but features include:
- One-on-one and group video, voice and chat;
- View all active conversations in one place;
- Merge together or divide active group text, voice and video conversations, with a simple swipe of the finger;
- View real-time social and business profiles right inside Hookflash;
- Transfer calls at the click of a button;
- Record and share previously captured conversations--voice, video and chat.
- Always know who’s participating
Hookflash calls can be recorded, which is another nice feature. I actually learned about Hookflash, from pal Erik Lagerway, a former prolific VoIP blogger when he presented Hookflash at StartupCamp3 colocated at a previous ITEXPO.
Hookflash will be available as a limited preview in October 2011. I'm on the beta list, so I hope to review is as soon as ITEXPO is over.