Skype has launched a free offering letting iPhone (News - Alert) users video-chat with each other, according to InformationWeek in a victory for mobile video calling.

"This season is very special as we are releasing a new version of Skype (News - Alert) for iPhone and iPod Touch with video calling. Now you will be able to share all the special moments in video, as they happen, wherever you are," said Raul Liive, project manager of beta programs at Skype, in a blog cited by Alison Diana.

“Skype Technology, the biggest provider of international calls, is introducing video calling for Apple's (News - Alert) wireless devices, a move that may broaden the appeal of mobile videoconferencing,” as well as mobile video calling, according to Bloomberg News.

Skype for iPhone, she says, aids mobile video calling in that it “lets users make and receive free Skype video calls on their iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch, said Skype in a blog. The service works on 3G and Wi-Fi, and is compatible with the iPhone 4; iPhone 3GS; and iPod Touch fourth-generation with iOS 4.0 or later. Owners of the iPod Touch third generation and iPad also may receive video calls, according to Skype.”

As Bloomberg (News - Alert) says, “The company had previously offered its free mobile video-call app only for Nokia's N900 smart phone. Luxembourg-based Skype is seeking to increase the number of subscribers who may eventually buy its premium services. The new app will compete with existing iPhone and iPod calling services offered by Apple, Fringland and Tango.”