Cordless VoIP phones for Skpye
By Vivek Puri | August 31st, 2006 at 07:03 pm ET
Skype announced that it is introducing new cordless phones that will not require a running computer. The new class of phone will enable used to make and receive calls over PC and PSTN/POTS (landline phones). The first series of products to be launched in this class are the Philips VOIP841 cordless phone and NETGEAR�s cordless phone for Skype. This development was long expected from Skype, and is definitely good news for skype users, and ebay, and not so good for vonage where problems never seem to end.
�We are broadening our reach to mass consumers by offering them the opportunity to communicate via Skype without having to be tied to the computer,� said Stefan �berg, general manager, desktop and hardware at Skype. �Skype has already introduced Wi-Fi phones and Skype for PocketPC wireless. Now Skype is taking the next step and working together with Philips and NETGEAR to introduce PC-free cordless phones. The cordless phones for Skype launched today, give Skype users the flexibility to enjoy free Skype to Skype calls and inexpensive calls to ordinary and mobile phones anywhere in the house, at any time without a running computer.�
Skype users will be able to sing into their account from the phones itself and download their contacts. Users will be able search contacts on their phone, which will be able to support an integrated contact list of skype contacts and traditional phone numbers.
Each of these cordless phones will have a remote DECT base station, which can be plugged into both the broadband connection and the traditional phone lines. The system will handle both Skype and ordinary calls in one phone, presented through an easy-to-use, user interface. Both the Philips and NETGEAR cordless phones boast a full color graphic display, simplified calling features with an integrated contact list, and an enhanced speakerphone with great voice clarity.
Premium Skype features, including SkypeOutTM for inexpensive international calls to traditional landlines and mobile phones, SkypeInTM to receive calls from landline or mobile phones on Skype, and Skype Voicemail will all be easily accessible through the phone.
The Skype Certified Philips VoIP841 cordless phone will be available for the 2006 holiday season.
