Later this week, at the Wireless Association’s CTIA conference, eBay’s Skype plans to announce the availability of its VoIP service from the Apple App Store for both the iPhone and iPod touch.
This new Skype application will allow iPhone owners to make free calls and send free instant messages over a Wi-Fi network to other Skype users.
There are already other unofficial apps for the iPhone that allow handset owners to use Skype, but the official application will unlock all of the VoIP service’s functionality.
Skype is already available for Windows Mobile and Google Android G1 handsets, and the firm has a partnership with Hutchison’s 3 since 2007, offering integrated Skype handsets, including the latest INQ1 phone.
The difference with the iPhone app is that it promises new functionality, allowing users to access numbers from their existing address book, and so eliminating duplication of contact details.
Later this year, Skype is also planning to bring an application out for the BlackBerry smart phone, in association with RIM.
By Marie Boran
