Originally set to launch on December 15th, the Skype (News - Alert)-enabled X-Series handsets from 3 are actually available today in UK. The devices, which use the iSkootMobile software, are currently available in 3's UK stores, and also in 3's other markets around the world beginning early 2007.

 

"This is a significant milestone, as 3 is the first mobile operator to bring Skype-enabled mobile phones to consumers," said Skype's head of Business Development, Mobile Eric Lagier in a statement. "Skype has been working in close partnership with iSkoot, who have helped to make the promise of mobile Skype a reality."

 

X-Series customers will now be able to make unlimited Skype calls from their Nokia (News - Alert) N73, and from more handsets in the future.

 

"We are extremely proud to be working with Skype and bringing this first-of-its-kind solution to Skype users," said iSkoot's CEO Jacob Guedalia in a statement released on Friday. "Skype is the clear leader in internet calling and now, thanks to iSkoot, it is available on mobile phones and Skype users can always stay in touch."

 

Cambridge, Mass. iSkoot had announced its partnership with Skype back in August. The companies announced back then that they would co-market mobile-PC calling products. The partnership would enable iSkoot to mass market Java-phones, as well as high-end smartphones, to place and receive Internet calls through Skype's software via handsets, without the need for PCs, special hardware, or WiFi hot spots.

 

The agreement also called for Skype to certify iSkoot's products for making and receiving Skype calls on mobile phones. Once certified, iSkoot’s software will be available online from Skype.

 

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