Skype SIM: Free calls and instant messaging on your 3G handset
April 23rd, 2009
photo: kalandrakas
This is a really stunning product. From the 1st of May, you can buy a “Skype SIM” from Three for a one-off price for £1.99. That SIM card can be inserted into your 3G handset and will give you unlimited access to Skype with no data charges so you can make and receive free Skype calls. Furthermore, unlike Three’s existing Skype packages you don’t need to top up regularly to get your Skype access.
Kevin Russell, Chief Executive Officer of 3 in the UK, told Celluar News:
“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. If you want to talk on a mobile for free, just join us and give it a go. This is for everyone.”
That really does sound stunning deal – a one-off payment of £1.99 for unlimited Skype calls forever.
I presume the reasons why Three are offering this deal is because once you’re on their network, you’ll use their other services. For example if you use Skype, chances are you’ll be interested in accessing the internet on your phone,. Futhermore, I’m not sure if you can use SkypeOut on Three – you’ll probably have to send texts and make calls through their cellular network. Given the ridiculous margins that mobile operators charge on things such as SMS, they can easily recoup the cost of providing a totally free Skype service.
Of course, there is nothing to stop you from buying a cheap second-hand 3G handset, stick a £1.99 Skype SIM in it and carry that as a “second phone” around. You can continue to use your normal phone with your existing number as you would currently use it and then use your 3G phone for the sole purpose of Skype.
| About Ken | |
 | My mission is to demystify the world of mobile technology for general audiences and to communicate how mobile technology can enhance every aspect of our daily lives. I've been maintaining the Ken's Tech Tips website since 2004. I have experience communicating mobile technology and presenting new mobile products both online and offline, including at various trade shows and events. You can check out my profile or drop me an e-mail. |
- Credit Crunch , Mobile , Three , UK
- Comments(1)
[...] unlimited Skype calls (available without a top up); doesn’t count towards your data [...]