Skype 3G comes to Android 2.1

Skype on Tuesday made its internet telephony client available to users of Android 2.1 and later.

Android devices should be able to use Skype's free calls via WiFi or 3G, EDGE and GPRS networks.

But Skype warned that data charges would depend on each carrier.

It also noted that there were problems with Skype on Samsung's Galaxy S Android device; however it had tested the application successfully on HTC Desire, HTC Legend, and Google Nexus One devices.

Skype released its 3G capable version for the iPhone in May and has since canned plans to charge a supplement for its use over 3G.

Android users will be able to synchronise existing contacts within the Android device with Skype contacts and place calls on Skype from existing contacts.

According to some users of the Whirlpool broadband forum, Skype over Telstra and the merged VHA's Vodafone and 3 networks was possible, but some users complained of the application being blocked by Optus.

VHA was the only major mobile carrier to outline that Skype was permitted. This was only for 3 customers, according to its Apps and Services fact sheet.