Is It Time To Skype? - You decide

Getting started:
http://www.skype.com/download/skype/windowsmobile/download.html.
Click on Download Now under Skype 2.2 for Windows Mobile. If the file fails to install, choose the Advanced User option and download the (.cab) file directly. If you already have a Skype account, just log in as usual and make calls by simply keying in the country and area code followed by the phone number. So, to call Singapore, key (+65) followed by the number.

Why it's cool:
With 1 million users in Singapore alone, Skype is the most installed and most popular VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) software. That means you have a good chance of calling your friends for free. Skype's mobile interface is easy to use and feels just like the desktop version.

Skype now has the World Unlimited service whre you can call phone numbers in 34 countries for US$12.95 (S$18) a month, or you can choose the single country service and pay US$5.95 for unlimited calls to Singapore landline and mobile numbers.

How it can be better:
Since Skype is proprietary, it is only limited to Windows Mobile phones for now. Set-up is harder compared to the SIP-based services (Session Initiation Protocol) and longer, because you have to download an application. The biggest gripe however, is that you need to use a earpiece to be able to talk on Skype mobile.

Verdict:
The best rates with Skype Unlimited but it feels more like running an Internet application instead of making a phone call.

courtesy of Digital Life, 24 June 2008