Nokia is working to deeply integrate Skype functionality into its phones, with the first one set to be released in the third quarter. These Nokia Skype phones will allow users to make free Skype-to-Skype calls over either a Wi-Fi or 3G data connection.

The first Nokia phone to get the full Skype treatment will be the Nokia N97, with other versions to follow. This project isn’t just about adding a Skype client, but deeply integrating Skype into the handset.

Users of the forthcoming phone will be able to see their Skype friends among their contacts in the device, as well as their current online status. That makes it easier to manage all of your contacts from one address book without having to see if they are on Skype, then switch back to your address book if they are not.

Skype clients are starting to gain popularity with smartphone users, but are often crippled in terms of making calls over 3G. The wireless carriers, especially in the US, want to force users to consume their wireless minutes rather than only using their data plans.

In the UK, mobile carrier 3 has already begun offering Skype phones to its users. Their Skypephone S2 even includes a Skype button on the front enable easier use of the service.

What’s especially interesting is that data plans in Europe are much less expensive than the United States. However the American carriers have largely held out from allowing VoIP calls.

Hopefully the inclusion of this feature by the largest global handset maker will see some headway in these services in the States. Carriers could still filter the traffic, but it’s not likely to be a well-received practice with consumers.

Skype calling is especially useful for making free International calls from your mobile handset. The Skype clients in the states that use minutes also benefit from the ability to make International calls using their standard plan minutes.

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Entry was posted on Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 at 10:16 am under Cell phones, Technology.

Read more entries by Dave Jeyes.
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