NETGEAR's Skype WiFi Phone (model number SPH101) is a handheld device that somewhat resembles a typical cell phone (though it does not flip open). Rather than placing calls through cellular networks, however, the Skype phone connects to WiFi networks and allows the user to place and receive Skype VoIP calls without requiring direct access to a computer, speakers, and headset.

Specifically, the device is an 802.11g client, able to connect to 802.11 b or g networks. The user can stash their user id and password for networks directly on the phone as well as any required security keys. Note however, that the phone can only be used with open or direct-connect (via user-id/password) WiFi networks; WiFi networks or hot spots that require browser-based access and authentication are not supported by the phone. Communications over the phone can be protected via hardware-based WEP (40/64 and 128-bit) and WPA-PSK (assuming a connection to a WEP/WPA-PSK comatible AP/router).

Calling features of the phone are similar to those available to PC-bound Skype users. Up to 200 contacts can be stored on the phone, with those contacts that are currently online highlighted as such. Screens are available listing contacts and missed, incoming, and outgoing calls; as are options such as placing a call on hold and muting the microphone. Other key Skype features that can be utilized via the phone include SkypeOut and SkypeIn, which allow the user to place and receive calls through the phone to and from non-Skype users (i.e., to regular phones); and voicemail capabilities. SkypeOut also allows the user to forward calls to mobile and landline phones or to another Skype user name. These options (SkypeIn, SkypeOut, and Voicemail) are provided by the Skype service itself and are separately priced (visit the Skype Web site for further details).

Hardware-wise, the phone ships with a battery pack and charger (which connects to the phone via USB), and supports connection speeds from 1 to 54 Mb/sec. The vendor notes that typical talk time for the battery is 2 hours, while typical standby time is 20 hours; times that can be influenced by network configuration, signal strength, features used, and other variables. The phone can be used while the battery is charging. Software updates for the phone are performed wirelessly, without utilizing a USB cable.

The Skype WiFi Phone is now shipping in the US and Canada, and is expected to be available in Europe and the Asia/Pacific region "soon." It is priced at $249.99, and the vendor states that customers will receive 30 free SkypeOut minutes and 30 days of free Voicemail with their purchase.

Contact NETGEAR for further information.