A new partnership between Verizon Wireless and Skype will soon allow certain Verizon’s subscribers to use the Internet calling service. Starting late March, 3G smartphone owners who are using a voice and data plan will be able to make free Skype-to-Skype voice calls on the carrier’s 3G network.Skype is a software application that lets users make voice calls over the Internet. Announced at the Mobile World Congress, the Verizon-Skype deal enables users of selected Verizon handsets to make and receive unlimited free calls to and from other Skype members without deducting their voice minutes. Moreover, they can call international phone numbers "at competitive Skype Out calling rates" and chat with other Skype users via instant messaging. Those with friends and family abroad will be benefited most by this service, according to Verizon Wireless.
The offer will initially be available to six Research in Motion smartphones, namely BlackBerry Storm2 9550, Storm 9530, Tour 9630, Curve 8530, Curve 8330 and 8830 World Edition, as well as three Android powered handsets, which are Motorola DROID, HTC DROID Eris and the upcoming Motorola Devour. Customers will be able to download the Skype Mobile application without any charges when it rolls out.
In addition, users can have the always-on application running in the background on their Verizon smartphones, meaning they will be able to receive calls any time. However, this version of Skype does not work on Wi-Fi connection. The calls will be carried over the wireless operator’s voice network without affecting the overall network quality.
Many carriers have been blocking VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calling as it directly challenges their wireless calling business. However, AT&T relented to approve a Skype application on the iPhone in 2009, although it only works over Wi-Fi connection. And now, the strategic relationship between Skype and Verizon marks another big step forward in the Internet telephone field.
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