Mobile Phone operator 3 has announced that this coming Friday will see the launch of a new handset which will allow users to make phone calls for free over the internet via Skype.

The service comes after a report that the majority of mobile phone companies hadn’t been too keen on the idea of users being able to access Skype from their phones and in turn, make cheap or free calls. Operators were afraid that Skype-access would affect their business and although there have been some handsets that run Skype, or allow customers access to it, it usually involved the download of a third party application, which users found off putting.

The Skypephone will have the usual voice calls, internet roaming, email and video downloads, which will use the conventional mast system. Separate to this it has a Skype button, which will direct calls from a mast into the Skype system which is cheaper to use meaning calls and instant messages to other Skype users, anywhere in the world will be free. The handset will cost 49.99 for pay as you go users but will be free. Bill pay customers will get the Skypephone for free when they sign a long-term contract.

Because of it’s launch is so close to Christmas, the Skype phone is likely to be a huge seller this season and will, inevitably, give the touch screen iPhone a run for it’s money saleswise.