Abstract: A system and method to enable establishment of long distance call connections, from a personal communication assistant (PCA), such as a personal wireless digital assistant, via a packet network, such as the Internet is provided. The system includes a call completion application adapted for communication with a long distance service provider server for establishing a cost effective long distance call connection. The system is further adapted to provide call scheduling and point of presence (POP) optimization within the PSTN.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for completing long distance telephone calls over the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) using an automated Internet Operator are disclosed. The apparatus includes a long distance service provider node connected to the Internet and a call connection control computer connected to the Internet and interfaced to a toll switch connected to the PSTN. The method permits a calling party to request the automated Internet Operator to complete long distance call connections by connecting to the long distance service provider node and identifying himself. The caller completes a call request form which is uploaded to the long distance service provider node and passed to the call connection control computer for processing. The call connection control computer instructs the toll switch to dial the calling party, dial the called party and conference the two lines.