3 Offers Mobile Skype

UK mobile network 3 have announced a new X-Series phone that comes loaded with the Symbian OS and is packed with a whole host of features, one of which is Skype. While running Skype off a mobile device is nothing new, it is interesting to see 3 use the ability to call for free with Skype as a unique selling point because they will almost certainly lose revenue on calls made via their network.

They will be offering the X-Series phone with flat rate internet access, which can also be used to connect to your home computer via Orb. I like this idea a lot because currently there is a reluctance in the mobile sector in the UK to offer flat rate internet access, never mind the ability to make calls via Skype. At least someone is thinking outside the box.

Aside Skype and Orb, you can also avail of SlingPlayer. Fantastic! If you have a Slingbox hooked up to your cable / satellite / set-top box at home you can use the SlingPlayer to watch and record TV.

3 will be taking the service live on December 1st in the UK but will be making it available internationally in 2007.

[via TVNinja]