Skype Mobile Lands on Nine Verizon Handsets Tomorrow

Verizon Wireless and Skype announced recently that Skype mobile is set to become available tomorrow, March 25, on a number of nine Verizon 3G smartphones. According to the duo, the new software solution will offer the carrier's users the possibility to make Skype-to-Skype calls, so that they can enjoy an enhanced experience and improved call quality.

The new solution is set to become available on Thursday for new and existing Verizon users that own smartphones based on Google's Android operating system or on RIM's BlackBerry platform. Those users can have a series of ways when it comes to getting Skype on their handsets, including visiting the carrier's website from a PC, or texting “SKYPE” to 2255. At the same time, the wireless carrier also notes that the software solution is available for download from the Android Market, and that new BlackBerry users will find it in their home screens in the Downloads folder when activated.

Verizon Wireless 3G smartphone users will benefit from a simple way of staying connected with friends, family, and colleagues around the world. Skype mobile enables users to:
- make and receive unlimited Skype-to-Skype voice calls to any Skype contact around the globe;
- send and receive unlimited instant messages with other Skype users;
- manage the Skype contact list directly from the mobile application; and
- call international phone numbers at competitive Skype calling rates.

John Harrobin, senior vice president of Digital Media and Marketing, noted, “Skype mobile will change the way mobile consumers in the United States make and receive calls. With an ‘always on’ capability, Skype mobile on your 3G smartphone means you never have to miss a call or make an appointment to connect with Skype users around the world. With Skype mobile, we’re untethering Skype users from their PCs and enabling them to stay connected – on the best wireless network in the country.”

Those Verizon Wireless smartphone users willing to try out Skype mobile on their handsets will need a data plan for that. Moreover, the carrier notes that “Skype-to-Skype calls will not be charged against their monthly minute allowances or data plans.” Users will have to head over to Skype's website to purchase Skype Credit to make Skype Out calls. Skype mobile will become available initially on handsets like BlackBerry Storm 9530, Storm2 9550, Curve 8330, Curve 8530, 8830 World Edition, and Tour 9630, as well as on DROID by Motorola, DROID ERIS by HTC and Motorola DEVOUR.