VoIP service provider Skype announced on Thursday that its Skype (News - Alert) for Pocket PC software has been downloaded five million times worldwide since the company released it in April 2004. The software allows Skype users to make free Internet telephone calls to communicate with other Skype members via any Windows Mobile Pocket PC device running on a high speed WiFi (News - Alert) Internet connection.

The software's speedy widespread adoption might have to do with the fact that its latest version, Skype for Pocket PC 2.1 is currently supported by more than 60 devices from 20 different manufacturers. The software allows users to take Skype service mobile, including free SkypeOut calling for users in the U.S. and Canada to landlines and other mobile phones in North America until the end of the year.

“Skype for Pocket PC gives our mobile customers the freedom to use Skype while on the go,” said Skype’s head of business development, mobile access and devices Eric Lagier in a statement. “Skype has made Internet calling a reality for millions of people, and we have brought this same innovation to the mobile market. As we move Skype beyond the PC, our mobile users get the best of both worlds: the simplicity of free calling with the convenience of mobility.”

Today’s news comes on the heels of Skype joining forces with Thomson to launch a suite of consumer products. The companies will first introduce the GE DECT (News - Alert) 6.0 (Digital Enhanced Cordless Technology) Wireless Handset, Thomson's first product with integrated Skype capabilities. The new device, GE Model 28300EE2, can carry both landline and Skype calls, as well as Internet and traditional line conferencing. The Skype Certified DECT Wireless Handset for Skype should be available in the upcoming months for a suggested retail price of $149.

DECT 6.0 is a technology currently used in Europe and Asia which gets rid of annoying static, pops, hiss and buzz usually experienced in cellular and regular wireless home phone calling.

Skype Limited

http://www.skype.com

-------

Johanne Torres is contributing editor for TMCnet and INTERNET TELEPHONY magazine. To see more articles by Johanne Torres, please visit her columnist page.