liGo NEWS

Skype Phones On Cloud

Skype is greatly responsible for the global popularity of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). The ability to call anyone anywhere in the world on their PC, and for free sparked a major change in telecommunications. The development of Skype phones has simply added to its popularity.

In Europe Skype has gained even more ground. An agreement has been reached between Skype and the Cloud Wi-Fi Network. With a Skype enabled phone from SMC Networks and a minimal fee of 6.99 pounds ($13) calls can now be made through any of their wi-fi hotspots. “This marks the start of a real low cost alternative to traditional telecom services”, says Niall Murphy, the Clouds Chief Technology Officer.

The service will be launched in the UK this month. It will then be spread to the other European countries by the end of 2006. Cloud has extensive coverage, operating over 8,500 hot spots across Europe. The Cloud has wi-fi hotspots available at retail outlets, hotels and airports. They’ve also begun adding outdoor wi-fi hot spots in nine cities across the United Kingdom.
Currently the only handset confirmed to be ready for use with this service is the SMCWSKP100 but a representative from Cloud confirms that they are actively working with manufacturers and providers of handsets and other wi-fi devices to come up with products that will work well with the public wi-fi environment. Hopefully soon there will be more Skype phones available for use with their network.