When we started this site almost five years ago, we wrote often about the idea of phones that could use voice-over-IP technology like Skype in WiFi zones to bypass network providers. There were a number of WiFi phones launched but at some point, the idea seemed to fizzle out.
But maybe the idea didn’t die because on Tuesday March 31st, Skype will launch an application that will allow iPhone (and iTouch??) users make calls with their service in WiFi zones. Calls to other Skype users will be free and calls to land phones across the world will be at their usual low rates. The WSJ says:
EBay Inc.’s Skype unit plans to release a version of its Internet-based phone software for Apple Inc.’s iPhone.
The move, set to be announced Tuesday, puts Skype more directly in competition for wireless voice services with network operators such as AT&T Inc. and Verizon Wireless.
Skype’s software, which can be downloaded free, allows iPhone users to call other Skype users on computers or supported cellphones free if they are in a Wi-Fi hot spot. Or they may call land lines for a fee, typically 2.1 cents a minute.
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I’m super excited about this, even more excited that I don’t have to jailbreak my iphone to use the app. Will it also be available in the app store tomorrow?
March 30th, 2009 at 7:43 am
The 3 Skypephone (from the 3 Network in the UK) is a 3G mobile with Skype installed; I know someone who has Skype for Windows mobile on a HTC Touch Pro, and I am currently installing Skype on my HTC Touch Diamond. The Skype website lists a range of mobile devices (including the PSP) which support Skype. It seems to me that the iPhone is finally catching up with other smart phones.
March 30th, 2009 at 8:16 am
The crazy thing is that when I hacked my iphone almost 2 yrs ago, someone had already created this application just like AIM, then Apple decided to release apps so people would stop the hacking and money could be made, but this is not new news. I just can’t believe it’s taken this long for skype to officially release this app.
March 30th, 2009 at 2:27 pm