TMCnet News

Philips Teams Up With Skype to Offer VoIP321 Cordless Phone
[January 04, 2006]

Philips Teams Up With Skype to Offer VoIP321 Cordless Phone


TMCnet Associate Editor

During the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas today, Philips Electronics announced that it is teaming up with Skype to introduce a new Internet phone: the VoIP321.

According to a
news release, the new, dual functionality cordless phone will enable consumers to make free Skype calls, as well as ordinary landline calls. The ability to toggle between both mediums is starting to become a popular feature for companies making consumer telecommunications products.



“The introduction of Skype compatibility to our devices is great news for consumers, enabling them to communicate in new ways with friends and family far away,” said Nick Dosanjh, vice president and general manager of Philips Home Communication, in the release. “The VoIP321 is designed to allow the consumer to experience Skype’s service with the convenience of a familiar cordless telephone and the simplicity and ease of use expected from Philips.”

Users can load their contact lists onto the new phone for convenience. In addition, the VoIP321 allows consumers to view who is available on Skype by simply looking at the phone’s display. To see which Skype customers are available, all a user has to do is click on the “Skype button” on the phone. The handset also allows specific polyphonic ring tones to distinguish between Skype and landline calls.


The VoIP321 operates on Digitally Enhanced Cordless Telephone (DECT) technology, which enhances sound quality, as well as security. Consumers will experience crystal clear sound and reduced noise interference with the new DECT technology.

According to Philips, the VoIP321 will be available in Europe in May and in the U.S. in July.

For more information about Philips Electronics, visit
www.philips.com.

For more information about Skype, visit
www.skype.com.

Patrick Barnard is Associate Editor for TMCnet and a columnist covering the telecom industry. To see more of his articles, please visit
Patrick Barnard’s columnist page.

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