Michael A. Hiltzik

In the following viewpoint, Michael A. Hiltzik reports that voice communications can be transmitted over the Internet more cheaply and efficiently than over traditional phone lines. He explains that traditional phone carriers such as AT&T have begun to invest in Internet calling technology in response to their customers’ demand for lower prices and additional services. The transition to Internet calling will likely be slow because the phone system is more familiar, reliable, and ubiquitous, but many technology experts predict that Internet calling will one day replace traditional calling. Michael A. Hiltzik is a staff writer for the Los Angeles Times.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. According to Hiltzik, what are “digital packets”?
2. How long do most forecasters predict Internet calling will have to coexist...