ISP GoConnect (ASX:GCN) has entered into an alliance in Australia with vPhone and Wholesale Communications Group to empower GoConnect’s IPTV platform GoTrek with VoIP and instant messaging capabilities.

The new service will also enable users to make ‘Off-Net’ phone calls at competitive rates by establishing a pre-paid account with GoConnect’s alliance partner vPhone, according to GoConnect. vPhone will provide 1300 phone support of the VoIP feature set for users (in Australia) and enable the ‘Off-Net’ services to the GoTrek VoIP application. vPhone will also supply a range of hardware, including analogue telephone adapters, handsets and other accessories.

GoConnect claims the ability to combine IPTV push video infotainment with internet communications in both voice and text is a world first. GoConnect also believes the combined IPTV and VoIP capabilities of the new GoTrek will be just as powerful as Skype in enabling GoConnect to build a substantial user base and hence, derive significant commercial value for the company over time. To back its claims, GoConnect says it will be working with its distribution partners in Australia, India and China to accelerate the penetration of the new GoTrek into the internet market.