UPDATE: Skype Signs Mobile Partner

UPDATE: Techdirt pointed out that this service is only available on E-Plus data cards used in computers, not on handsets. This InfoWorld article confirms it, that “the operator has no plans to begin offering a Skype VOIP service that can be used on a mobile phone” and that other VoIP services are blocked on the data cards. This doesn’t make a lot of sense — what’s the benefit of allowing one VoIP service and not others? And I still think the point in my original post (below) stands: An operator with a good data service could offer VoIP on handsets in a premium package and make a profit.
Skype has signed its first mobile partner, Germany’s E-Plus. Skype has been on handsets before, but this is the first operator partner.
“E-Plus customers will pay $49.48 a month for the flat-rate data service, which includes Internet access and free Skype calling to the 2.9 million German subscribers to Skype and the 52 million registered Skype users globally.” And I assume the cheaper international calls as well…
While it may seem to be cannabalising the main business of E-Plus, even if customers used Skype for all calls $49.48 per user is a good figure…I don’t know whether Skype receives any money from this deal. There a lots of rumors Skype is up for sale (which the company denies) although many people believe the business has been hyped far beyond its actual worth. There has been some skepticism to the idea that telcos would welcome VoIP services to their networks (fairly justified considering some broadband providers are blocking the services) but I think the technology will find a way in…I don’t think it can be stopped, really.
Related stories:
i-Mate Launches The First Pocketable Wi-Fi Phone
Brightpoint Details Skype Distribution Deal
Skype Coming To Mobile Phones

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