This critter is going to list at $249 when it hits the street in July [they say]. Steep. But, then, the economics of scale and competition should change that.
The SPH101 is the first Skype-Certified device to allow consumers to make unlimited free domestic and international calls to other Skype users over a wireless network without having to be tied to a PC. The WiFi phone will work anywhere in the world where a user has a secured or open access to a WiFi network.
The device comes pre-loaded with Skype software and ready out-of-the-box to use with a wireless network. The device’s intuitive on-screen color menu shows saved Skype contacts and their online availability for easy communications, similar to the PC experience.
The battle continues to expand on many fronts between traditional Telcos and ISP’s, wireless carriers and VOIP providers. There’s overlap which includes one class of operator deciding to join the other side[s]. Sometimes, sleaziness overlaps, as well — witness the many charges of Comcast cutting off Vonage subscribers in regions where they start to offer VOIP.
There’s a breakout between the geeks and creeps in this war. You see types like Verizon do their utmost to hold back widespread access from anything like wifi or wimax. You see Skype and others partnering with technology folks like Netgear to offer new means of utilizing existing communications pathways. If we can only keep the most backwards elements of commerce out of the fray — which means Congress and the FCC — maybe more affordable and faster will continue to roll out.
