Skypephone launched in a blaze of obscurity

With all the hoo-haa surrounding the launch of Apple’s iPhone in the UK, a rival development arguably more significant received comparatively little attention. What passed most of us by was the launch of the 3 Skypephone.

The Voice over IP outfit have gone mobile with the UK rollout of a Skype-endorsed handset that allows users to place free Skype calls and instant messages from their mobile instead of being tied to a computer. At £49.99 for the Pay as you go deal or free with an 18-month contract, the Skypephone is vastly cheaper than the much-feted iPhone. Like the new Apple model, the Skypephone service is only available from one mobile operator.

But make your own mind up about the spec of these new mobiles and whether touch and dial is worth all the extra money. See 3 Skypephone and Apple iPhone as pitched by the makers. Or read the CNET.co.uk reviews of the 3 Skypephone and the Apple iPhone

Meanwhile, Skype has just released an updated version of its software, Skype 3.6 that includes a makeover of the interface, expansion of the functionality of public chats and automatic redial for busy or unconnected calls. Other changes include easy in call sound-level controls, a new look file transfer, and for Mac users the ability to import contacts from the Apple address book.