The news that Nokia is going to pre-load Skype to their N97 model due in June 2009 might be a salvo across the bow of phone carriers everywhere. Apple started the “hands off our platform” when they released the iPhone without a smidgeon of AT&T branding (though they did apparently bow to restrictions by refusing to authorize some applications). Now Nokia is following suit with an announcement that starting with the N97 that goes on sale in June, Skype will be embedded into the OS. The Skype service allows for instant messaging and making unlimited voice phone calls using only your phone data plan. Using a service called SkypeOut you can make calls to non-Skype landlines as well as other mobile phones for a nominal flat annual rate. Skype calling is used most frequently to avoid exorbitant international calling fees imposed by phone companies. It remains to be seen if Skype will be allowed on any model phone offered by US carriers. So far even Apple has barred its use though some third party applications such as Truphone are starting to appear which offer the service.

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