The new phones enable VoIP calls to other Skype users, landlines or mobile phones without the need for a direct computer connection.
Netgear’s SPH200D is a dual-mode DECT cordless phone that connects to a user’s home network and phone line wall jack, so that users can place and receive both traditional PSTN and Skype VoIP calls from one handset.
Philips’ VoIP841 is a DECT cordless phone that also enables PSTN and Skype VoIP calling from the one handset, by connecting an Ethernet cable and phone line.
Skype certified phones from Ipevo and Topcom also were announced. They are among the more than 150 Skype-certified products available, which include WiFi VoIP phones.
In December, Skype released version 3.0 of its VoIP calling software, whose new features included Public Chats for community-led text discussion, Skypecasts for live moderated conversations and Skype Extra, which give users the ability to play games and collaborate with other Skype users.
