Mobile operator 3 is to allow all its customers to make free calls over Skype without having to even pay for data charges.
Starting from 1 May, anyone with a Skype handset and a 3 SIM card - be it on contract or pay-as-you-go - will be able to make Skype calls to other Skype users and use instant messaging (IM) for free.
And as of this summer, users will be able to get the deal by popping a 3 SIM into any handset, regardless of whether its Skype-branded or bought via the operator.
Kevin Russell, chief executive officer of 3 UK, said in a statement: "Internet calling or VoIP, social networking, instant messaging and email are used by millions in the UK every single day. They are open to all on their PCs and laptops. We want people to be free to communicate from their mobiles in the same way as they do from their PCs."
"In future you will be able to buy a 3 SIM for unlimited Skype-to-Skype calls for less than the price of a cup of coffee and talk for as much as you want without ever paying us another penny. We won't ask you for a top-up or a monthly commitment," he added.
3 said that buying a SIM card costs just 1.99, with pay-as-you-go callers needing no monthly top ups and contract customers paying no additional fees.
eBay said earlier today that it's likely to spin Skype off within the next two years.
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