Skype for iPhone - Will Charge for Skype-to-Skype 3G Calls

   

Starting on August 2010, iPhone Skype to Skype calls over a [mobile] 3G network connections will be charged with "a small monthly fee" (at least in those networks allowing Skype traffic..).

Skype's site still says that "Most 3G networks should support Skype presence and chat. However, Skype calling is only possible via WiFi for the iPhone". However Apple's Appstore (here) features the new Skype for iPhone (and iPad), version 2.0, and says

"Upgrades / improvements include:

- Call using your 3G connection. Skype-to-Skype calls on 3G are free until at least end of August 2010, after which there will be a small monthly fee (operator charges for data will still apply) "

This means that the conflict between network operators and Skype, (i.e. "Net Neutrality"), is escalating. Not only that carriers will lose voice minutes, but someone else (Skype) will collect - based on infrastructure built and maintained by the carriers. Two questions remain:

1. What will be the "small monthly charge" - a flat "all you can eat" rate (as it sounds) or by minutes of use?
2. Will the Quality of the call ("QoS") will be at a level for which users will be willing to pay ?

Related posts:

• Frost & Sullivan: Mobile Operators Should not Impose Bans or Surcharges to VoIP - here
   
• Is it Possible to Block Skype with DPI ? - here
   
• Skype to EU Carriers: "The Network is not Yours" - here