VoIP Device Launch: New NETGEAR Skype WiFi Phone

NETGEAR today announced pricing information and pre-order availability for the new NETGEAR Skype (News - Alert) WiFi (News - Alert) phone (model SPH101). This will be the first device said to be certified to make mobile Internet telephony a reality for Skype users worldwide. The phone can be pre-ordered now exclusively online at an MSRP of $249.99.

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.

"We are pleased to announce pre-order availability of NETGEAR's Skype WiFi phone to those who have been anxiously awaiting the product launch since we unveiled a prototype at the Consumer Electronics Show," said Patrick Lo, NETGEAR's chairman and chief executive officer in a statement. "Our phone combines NETGEAR's innovative wireless networking technology with the simplicity of the Skype experience, while freeing users from the PC. With tens of thousands of customers already registered for more information on the NETGEAR Skype WiFi phone via our Web site and millions of registered Skype users, we're thrilled to bring forth this market-defining product to meet the pent-up demand of such an enthusiastic user community around the globe."

The new NETGEAR Skype WiFi phone is currently available for online pre-ordering at an MSRP of $249.99, and is backed by a one-year warranty and 24/7 technical support. All customers placing pre-orders will get 30 free SkypeOut minutes to many phones worldwide as well as 30 days of free Skype Voicemail, compliments of NETGEAR and Skype, for being the first to own the phone.

"By offering NETGEAR's unique WiFi phone to our global users, we are enabling them to enjoy the same Skype experience they love, but with the freedom of mobility," said Saul Klein, vice president of global marketing for Skype. "We are committed to working with industry leaders like NETGEAR who share our dedication to connecting the world through easy-to-use, innovative technologies."

Skype announced today that it also joined forces with Polycom (News - Alert) to introduce the Polycom Communicator, a Skype-certified, co-branded USB speakerphone that integrates Polycom's Acoustic Clarity Technology to deliver hands-free, natural, two-way voice communication for Skype voice and video conversations, without echoes or feedback.

The device complements the new Skype for Business offering, providing a portable, personal speakerphone system that delivers high-fidelity wideband voice communications for individuals or small groups. In addition to the core speakerphone capabilities, the Polycom Communicator also offers a high-quality audio output for playing music and games from a laptop or desktop PC.

NETGEAR, Inc.
http://www.netgear.com
Skype
http://www.skype.com