Verizon to allow Skype VoIP calls over 3G

Filed under: VoIP, Mobile

Verizon Wireless has announced that Hell has frozen over starting next month wireless customers with compatible phones will be able to use Skype's mobile software to make VoIP (Voice over IP) calls over Verizon's 3G wireless broadband network. In other words, you can call people on your cellphone without using any voice minutes... you'll just be eating into your data plan.

Verizon and Skype says you'll be able to make free Skype to Skype calls to anyone using Skype software, whether they're on a phone, computer, or other device. You'll also be able to make international calls to telephones at SkypeOut's normal rates. And you can send and receive instant messages and see the status of your contacts.

One thing you won't be able to do is use Skype to make free domestic calls to telephones withing the United States. And that makes sense, since Verizon would be shooting one of its primary revenue streams in the foot by allowing that.

Verizon is hardly the first carrier to allow Skype calls over its network. AT&T users can already do this. But Verizon is one of the largest telecoms in the US, making this pretty big news.

Verizon to allow Skype VoIP calls over 3G originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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