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Skype Goes Mobile: unlimited communications, Anywhere, Anytime

Skype is breaking new ground in making unlimited high-quality Internet communications available anywhere, anytime through global partnerships with leading mobile operators and device makers, and new versions of its software for mobile devices.

With Skype in their pockets, people will be able to keep in touch with friends, family and colleagues wherever they go – at home, at work or on the move. There will be no need for a PC in order to be part of the global Skype community.

In addition to mobile Internet calling, Skype on mobile devices will enable people to chat with their contacts around the world using Skype Instant Messaging (IM), and share their availability through ‘Skype presence’. Contacts will be automatically synchronized between the mobile device and the PC.

2005 was the year Skype brought Internet communications to more than 75 million registered PC users: 2006 is set to be the year Skype goes mobile.

Three milestone announcements

To kick off the year that ‘Skype goes mobile’, Skype is making three key announcements at 3GSM World Congress.

First, Skype is announcing that 3G mobile operator Hutchison 3 is set to offer Skype-enabled mobile devices in several of its markets around the world – a combination that is sure to delight mobile users.

Second, Skype is releasing Skype for Pocket PC 2.0, which lets people Skype on the move with any Windows Mobile Pocket PC wireless device. The following are some of the many Pocket PC devices that support Skype for Pocket PC 2.0: Several HP iPAQ models, Dell X3i, X30, X50, X50v, x51 and x51v models, Fujitsu Siemens Computers Pocket LOOX N520, 718 and 720 models. Skype for Pocket PC will be available preloaded on a number of devices including: Asus MyPal A636, BenQ P50, E-TEN M600, Dopod 700, i-mate PDA2, PDA2K, JASJAR and Qtek 9000 and 9090.

Third, Skype is announcing a new distribution and retail programme with Dangaard Telecom that will give it a huge new retail presence in Europe ¬- giving Skype Certified products the potential to reach shoppers across more than 34,000 European retailers.

These three announcements are part of a drive by Skype to extend its reach, and build a global ecosystem of mobile devices, mobile operators, distributors and retailers.

Putting Skype in every pocket

Skype has already announced partnerships with 3 Sweden and E-Plus to bundle Skype software with 3G data cards and flat-rate data subscriptions, to offer unlimited high-quality Skype calling over 3G mobile networks. With the new global partnership with Hutchison 3, Skype is extending its reach to additional markets and is commencing trials of Skype for mobile devices.

Skype is working with a number of leading mobile device makers to offer operators and end-customers an extensive choice of Skype-enabled mobile devices and accessories. The updated version of Skype for Pocket PC 2.0 is available for download from the Skype website.

Skype software for other mobile device platforms will be announced as soon as Skype has successfully completed friendly-user tests with its mobile operator partners.

What’s in it for mobile operators?

Skype on mobile devices opens up the opportunity for mobile operators to tap into the global Skype community of 75 million people. It enables them to capitalize on the growing demand for Skype and extend it into the mobile environment. By successfully promoting compelling new subscription plans and packages that include Skype, operators will be able to attract new users and boost uptake of other value-added services.

People on Skype are seeking mobile devices that enable them to stay in touch with their Skype friends and family around the world. Skype will let them do that using voice calls and chat directly from their mobile devices. Skype is a well recognized global brand: it conveys innovation, simplicity and friendliness. By partnering and co-branding with Skype, operators can leverage this globally successful brand.

Skype offers a powerful new platform on which mobile operators can build their next-generation converged communications offerings – encouraging loyalty, improving application ‘stickiness’ and driving higher levels of mobile usage.

What’s in it for Skype?

Going mobile is a top priority for Skype – the 75 million-plus members of our global community have sent a strong message that they want to communicate with their Skype friends through presence, IM, and voice calls on their personal mobile devices – wherever they are.

Skype’s partnerships with mobile network operators and mobile device makers are bringing the mobile Internet communications experience to this enthusiastic community – and adding enhanced services to delight all mobile users.

By going mobile, Skype is extending its reach into an addressable market nearly double the size of the existing fixed Internet user base.

Multiple channels to market

Skype will now have three distinct channels to market: through mobile operators, through preinstalling Skype on devices from leading manufacturers and retailers, and through online downloads.

Mobile operators, such as Hutchison 3, will be offering mobile devices bundled with dedicated Skype plans.
The Skype website will continue to be the point where users can download and install Skype for Pocket PC on to their devices. Skype is reinforcing its online distribution by partnering with companies like Handango, the leading mobile content provider.

Skype will be available preloaded on, or bundled with, Skype Certified mobile devices sold through the Skype distribution and retail network. Skype is working with leading distributors, like Dangaard, Brightpoint and Brightstar, and retailers like Radioshack to provide an excellent channel for distribution of Skype products and devices.
A number of mobile accessory providers, including Plantronics and Motorola are offering Skype Certified companion products.

Stay Tuned…

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45 thoughts on “Skype Goes Mobile: unlimited communications, Anywhere, Anytime

  1. lfigundio said 2642 days ago

    But … I have a Mobile Palm … what i doing?
    When i will use my mobile with skype?
    Thank
    Luca

  2. alanrust said 2638 days ago

    I have recently acquired a Palm LifeDrive and I’m disappointed to see that there isn’t a version of Skype for the Palm range. Surely Palm pda’s ought to have Skype?

    Do you have any indicatoin when (if at all), such software will be designed? Is there a beta version? If so, I’d like to experiment…

  3. dadenelli said 2621 days ago

    Yes, I think this is a hole in the skype market strategy. Palm is still a big market for mobile. Hope to hear soon a beta version for palm device

  4. norbert_nuri said 2620 days ago

    That’s the way to go! How does one do to sign up to be part of this .

    Could this be used to enable the operators’ to enter poples homes/PCs? Tripleplay?

    /www.minteraction.com

  5. michael_pemp said 2599 days ago

    Woize ltd. has announced to develop a sip-client for Symbian e. g. for Nokia 9300i. What is about skype???????????????????????????

  6. sylvanascent said 2596 days ago

    Well, I’ve finally found a use for that old Ipaq 2215 with a WiFi card – it works fine as a Skype Phone! Anywhere I’ve got wifi, I have Skype! Works great, and a whole lot easier to transport than my laptop.

    Now, if I just had an unlimited 3G account in Spain where we are moving plus a 3G Windows Mobile phone, we’d be rockin.

    Roger

  7. eddi7777 said 2579 days ago

    Hi, I am David Devesa
    user skype: eddi7777

    Quiero saber si se pueden desviar las llamadas de skypein a otro numero de telefono. Tambien quiero saber la direccion de contacto con ustedes.

    I want to know if the calls from skypein to another one can be turned aside I number of I telephone. Also I want to know the direction of contact with you.

    Thanks

  8. ulpito said 2576 days ago

    With all the new symbian phones coming up (and the ones already in the market) I wonder why there’s been no skype for symbian release yet. Please guys, we want it!

  9. arthursim said 2558 days ago

    Please don’t forgot the huge numbers of people with BlackBerrys out there who are also waiting for Skype to go mobile…

  10. paterasm4 said 2556 days ago

    I finished telecommunications and i want to ask if there is any space for someone with my knowledge .

  11. fertalib said 2553 days ago

    When will a lighter version of Skype Mobile be launched so that it supports Qtek 9100 (i-mate k-jam), which has 200 mhz processor?

    Tks

  12. gargindia said 2522 days ago

    I am really keen to get Skype Mobile for BlackBerry.

  13. mauriziochiocchetti said 2496 days ago

    i look for skype for my N80 wi-fi, but don’t found ! help me !

  14. jrlarue said 2488 days ago

    Hi,
    I travel a lot and i use many computers.
    I want to know if it possible to use Skype with (on) an external hard drive USB2.
    Thanks

  15. del_home said 2475 days ago

    How about Skype Mobile for the PSP (PlayStation Portable)? Are there any plans? That would be pretty cool – since Sony will come with a Cam for the PSP this fall.

    Greets,
    Del

  16. standal0ne said 2420 days ago

    :) I use,”Fring” (fring(dot)com) for Skype calls on my Nokia N70. Quite good program,it makes skype real mobile. Works even in GPRS/EDGE network.

  17. billmansfield said 2388 days ago

    Treo phones are one of the hottest phones on the market . Can this phone with all its features use Skype?

  18. yogi_sharma said 2384 days ago

    I am using Nokia 9300 with Symbian Browser built-in. Would this phone be compatible with Skype Mobile?

  19. styxco said 2327 days ago

    Hi,i’m waiting for Skype to provide software also for 3G mobiles phones..,like Nokia N series,or any one supporting 3G.
    I’m using EDGE internet connection trough GSM line,in short time i will use the same but trough GSM 3G.
    So,if i will have Skype on my mobile,i can talk from anywhere GSM provider have coverage.
    Isn’t that cool????

  20. styxco said 2327 days ago

    Hi,i’m waiting for Skype to provide software also for 3G mobiles phones..,like Nokia N series,or any one supporting 3G.
    I’m using EDGE internet connection trough GSM line,in short time i will use the same but trough GSM 3G.
    So,if i will have Skype on my mobile,i can talk from anywhere GSM provider have coverage.
    Isn’t that cool????

  21. pablodsagarna said 2301 days ago

    It would be better to add the video conference into mobile. If you need programmers to do it, I´m a programmer and I will help you for this.

    Regards,

    Paul Sagarna.

  22. pablodsagarna said 2301 days ago

    It would be better to add the video conference into mobile. If you need programmers to do it, I´m a programmer and I will help you for this.
    Regards,
    Paul Sagarna.

  23. pablodsagarna said 2301 days ago

    It would be better to add the video conference into mobile.

  24. yessefiallos said 2293 days ago

    I want to use skype with PDA or smartphone.Now I’m looking for device and better plane.
    With regular data plane, can I use skype mobile?(communication).

  25. yessefiallos said 2293 days ago

    Can I use skype Mobile with regular data plane or need to get 3G?

  26. ali.kurt said 2277 days ago

    that is also my request.Please make it happen so peaple who are not using Windows mobile devices can use skype mobile too.
    When when when?:-)

  27. ali.kurt said 2277 days ago

    that is also my request.Please make it happen so peaple who are not using Windows mobile devices can use skype mobile too.
    When when when?:-)

  28. ali.kurt said 2277 days ago

    that is also my request.Please make it happen so peaple who are not using Windows mobile devices can use skype mobile too.
    When when when?:-)

  29. ileana98 said 2221 days ago

    There’s new software from iskoot.com that allows Skype functionality on the Palm Treos. I haven’t tried it yet, but it looks intriguing. The only downsides are that you use airtime minutes when you make calls and are charged SkypeOut credit for receiving calls.

  30. ileana98 said 2221 days ago

    There’s new software from iskoot.com that allows Skype functionality on the Palm Treos. I haven’t tried it yet, but it looks intriguing. The only downsides are that you use airtime minutes when you make calls and are charged SkypeOut credit for receiving calls.

  31. johnrodneyfrancisberry said 2197 days ago

    Have a Vodafone V1605 (basically an I-Mate)with windows 5.0. Will Skype work on this??

  32. johnrodneyfrancisberry said 2197 days ago

    Have a Vodafone V1605 (basically an I-Mate)with windows 5.0. Will Skype work on this??

  33. johnrodneyfrancisberry said 2197 days ago

    Have a Vodafone V1605 (basically an I-Mate/HTC)with windows 5.0. Will Skype work on this??

  34. jonathas8412 said 2179 days ago

    I have got nokia N95 and want to install skype on it but don’t know how.Can anybody help me?

  35. jonathas8412 said 2179 days ago

    Can anyone tell me how to install skype on nokia N95?

  36. jonathas8412 said 2179 days ago

    Thanks.How can I install skype on nokoia N95?

  37. boatskype8093 said 2179 days ago

    well skype on mobile really work on my smartfon samsung i600.i recommend it to all friend who wanna make cheap calls to united states and all over the world through skype on the fone that is really work provided u have the area of 3G or wi fi,take this simple steps
    1… download skype direct from the smartfone
    2…sign in skypein if availabile befor making calls
    3… make sure u have unlimited plan for y call forexample fixed rate for the month.
    4… the recommended smart fone that support skype mobile and i bet u ,u will never regret it b cos i have risk to try it and it really works.now i make all my calls from skype and is really cheap to call international.

  38. boatskype8093 said 2179 days ago

    well skype on mobile really work on my smartfon samsung i600.i recommend it to all friend who wanna make cheap calls to united states and all over the world through skype on the fone that is really work provided u have the area of 3G or wi fi,take this simple steps
    1… download skype direct from the smartfone
    2…sign in skypein if availabile befor making calls
    3… make sure u have unlimited plan for y call forexample fixed rate for the month.
    4… the recommended smart fone that support skype mobile and i bet u ,u will never regret it b cos i have risk to try it and it really works.now i make all my calls from skype and is really cheap to call international.

  39. styxco said 2146 days ago

    Hi.,i wanna buy one Nokia N95 wi-fi.,and i wanna know if Skype does work with this mobile.Actually it is a Smart phone..,so it will work or not???? please an answer..,thx.

  40. styxco said 2146 days ago

    Hi.,i wanna buy one Nokia N95 wi-fi.,and i wanna know if Skype does work with this mobile.Actually it is a Smart phone..,so it will work or not???? please an answer..,thx.

  41. stickstoffelfe said 2098 days ago

    Is it possible to use SKYPE mobile on my Nokia 6300? Thanks for your answers!

  42. victor-lima said 2095 days ago

    Great, and in 2007 we have a market of 21 million portable navigation devices (PNDs) with Win CE 5 operating system which Skype does not supports. In 2008 it will be another 22 million units.

  43. victor-lima said 2095 days ago

    Great, and in 2007 we have a market of 21 million portable navigation devices (PNDs) with Win CE 5 operating system which Skype does not supports. In 2008 it will be another 22 million units.

  44. oliko1212 said 2046 days ago

    Hey everybody,
    I have Nokia N73 Music Edition and I wonder can i have have skype installed in it?
    Yes, i had once downloaded it but it was trial version and it expired unfortunately!
    Olga
    oliko1212 is my skype name.

  45. gkirushanth said 1106 days ago

    hi i live in srilanka and i got a nokia 6300, i would like to know if tere is any skype application for my model.

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