UK mobile operator, 3, is planning to bring a Skype phone to market later this year. The purpose built handset will allow VoIP calls over the 3 network (3 was the first 3G operator in the UK), as well as Skype instant messaging.
The plan solves problems for both parties: phone carriers are looking for ways to boost revenue in the face of declining voice calls. VoIP runs over data connections, so 3 makes a few extra bucks. And Skype, while wildly successful, is still (mostly) tied to the desktop. A Skype only handset could go crazy in the teen market: fixed rates for all-you-can eat calls and IM? The kids (and the parents who pay the bills) will be all over it. Not to mention the P2P file transfer.
The new phones will operate on contract and pre-pay plans.
Cheap handset 'will bring free mobile internet calls to mass market [The Guardian]
