As expected I received 2 free Skypephones today courtesy of 3′s PR machine, as part of the new 3 Skypephone service launch today in the UK. The new mobile will allow users to make free calls to other Skype users, as well as free instant messaging. It’s a cute little handset, but I’m struggling to see how users will use it.
The Skypephone is a 3G handset, with an mp3 player, 2MP camera and internet access but it can’t make Skype In or Skype Out calls so you will still need to make normal mobile calls for most chats.
In the UK it will cost £49.99 on a Pay As You Go contract, but you have to spend a minimum of £10 a month in order to get free Skype calls. Contract customers can get a free Skypephone.
I could potentially give my second handset to my girlfriend who I spend a ridiculous amount of time on the phone with for free calls, but I get so many free mins on my T-Mobile price plan that I don’t need to save money and I’m pretty sure she wouldn’t want to carry a second handset around with her anyway.
The 3 Skypephone service will be available in the UK on the 2 Nov 07, and will be shortly available in Australia, Italy, Hong Kong, Sweden, Denmark, Austria and Republic of Ireland.
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