Today's digital homes include a range of new devices and gadgets that are meant to simplify one's life and enable an easier way to communicate with friends and family. On that note, Taiwanese manufacturer ASUS has just announced the official debut of its new Touch AiGuru SV1T Videophone, designed to provide users with a new way to interact with their Skype contacts. The device itself requires no connection to the user's computer system, thanks to its integrated wireless connectivity capabilities, which have been combined with a large 7-inch touchscreen that makes it easier to input data and navigate through the various features that have been enabled on the videophone.

“Skype goes beyond traditional voice calling and brings people closer through rich, real-time video communication,” said Manrique Brenes, Skype's director of business development and product management for consumer electronics. “The device's touchscreen makes video calling an even easier and more accessible way for people to communicate. It offers the benefits of Skype video calling and exceptional audio quality – allowing friends, families, and small businesses to share their worlds face-to-face without being tied to a computer.”

The AiGuru SV1T has been designed with a simple-to-use, icon-based touchscreen interface, which enables users to easily place calls over the Skype Internet service. The device can allow for easy video conferencing and can even be used by small businesses. Thanks to the integration with the Skype service, the phone allows for free phone calls between Skype users, while the entire device offers an easy to install design. According to ASUS, the AiGuru SV1T can be set up and used in three easy steps:

1. Connect to a broadband connection, either wirelessly or via an Ethernet cable

2. Sign-in with an existing Skype name or create a new one

3. Start video calling

Unfortunately, the company hasn't announced any details regarding the availability and pricing of the new videophone, but you can expect it to become available before the upcoming holiday shopping season.