iPhone owners can now use VoIP applications on AT&T's 3G network.

AT&T officially announced earlier today that the company has "taken the necessary steps" to enable VoIP applications--those designed for Apple's iPhone--to run on its 3G wireless network. Originally, AT&T locked down the VoIP iPhone applications to Wi-Fi only, and thus provided other wireless devices equipped with VoIP applications for 3G, 2G, and Wi-Fi networks instead.

The company said months ago that it would re-evaluate VoIP capabilities for Apple's iPhone in regards to accessing its 3G network. AT&T also added that the re-evaluation wasn't specific to the technology, but rather consistent on how it regularly reviews device features.

Today's announcement also comes on the heels of the recent Google talk scandal that eventually involved an investigation from the FCC? Is this a coincidence?

"iPhone is an innovative device that dramatically changed the game in wireless when it was introduced just two years ago," said Ralph de la Vega, president and CEO, AT&T Mobility & Consumer Markets. "Today’s decision was made after evaluating our customers’ expectations and use of the device compared to dozens of others we offer."

AT&T said that it has informed Apple and the FCC of its decision. Although the company "green lighted" VoIP applications for the iPhone, currently there's no indication that the decision includes Google Voice.