Internet phone service provider Skype has announced a new version of its service for Google's Android mobile operating system.
Skype's mobile VoIP service, Skype Lite, is currently available on a range of Java handsets and will soon hit the HTC G1, which was the first device to operate Google Android. Skype Lite for Android will utilise a standard voice channel for users to make a local call, which would then be converted to VoIP.
The calls made over Skype using Android would have a charge for local calls, but users could save money on long-distance calls if both users are logged onto Skype, with no requirement for the mobile device to have WiFi or 3G. A similar version for Apple's iPhone may be developed but, according to tech site AfterDawn.com, the process would be much more technically challenging.
It could also be difficult for Skype to get its application introduced to the Apple Application Store. The site also speculates that Apple is likely to be reluctant to accept users converting international calls into local call charges. Apple's application store already includes a VoIP application from a rival company.
Though Skype isn't expecting to gain much financially from the development, it is hoping to entice users to adopt the service for calling on a regular basis. The development could spell good news for Android, however. Since the OS' arrival last year, mobile phone manufacturers have been clamouring to release their own devices toting the system - including high-fliers Samsung and Nokia.
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