Skype signs WiFi access deal for Europe

Thursday, October 26, 2006

Skype's VoIP internet telephone service will soon be available through The Cloud's Wi-Fi hot spots across Europe, according to both companies.

Although online access to Skype's Voice over Internet Protocol services is free to those connecting via their computer, access to The Cloud's Wi-Fi network will require the use of a Skype-enabled phone from SMC Networks and a monthly payment of about $13 (6.99 pounds).

Niall Murphy, The Cloud's chief technology officer, said that the deal "marks the start of a real low-cost alternative to traditional telephone services."

The service will launch in the United Kingdom this month and other European countries by the end of the year. The Cloud operates more than 8,500 hot spots across Europe.

At the moment, the only handset capable of being used in the service is the SMC-WSKP100 model, which costs about $277. But a Cloud representative confirmed that the company is "actively working with handset and other types of device providers to ensure these products work well in the public Wi-Fi environment."

Wi-Fi hot spots are available in retail outlets, hotels and airports. The Cloud has also started adding outdoor hot spots in nine cities across the United Kingdom.