Skype and 3 Launch New Skypephone

Skype and mobile operator 3 have apparently decided it's time they got together and allowed us to connect with each other – via their new 3 Skypephone. This 3G (obviously) enabled Internet phone can be used both as a normal mobile phone and also to make Skype calls.

The best part is that users can make free Skype-to-Skype calls and send free Skype instant messages. This is the first time an operator has offered a mass-market device which is tailormade for free calling over the Internet using a mobile.

The handset was developed by Skype and 3 in partnership with Qualcomm, using Qualcomm's BREW platform to enable Skype to work with core handset features such as address book and messaging.

The 3 Skypephone will be out in November in the UK, Australia, Austria, Denmark, Hong Kong, Italy, Ireland, Macau and Sweden. Free Skype-to-Skype calls will be available only if you are on contract with (or have enough balance with) the service.

The 3 Skypephone is expected to cost £49.99 (approximately Rs 4,050) on a PAYG tariff or free on contract. I guess we’ll just have to wait and watch to see if it’ll be coming to our shores. Stay tuned.