Skype Lite, Skype on MIDs appears at CES

Rounding off a busy week, Skype officially announced Skype Lite for Android and more than 100 other Java-enabled phones and threw in a beta announcement for a Skype on mobile internet devices (MIDs).

The thin-client Skype Lite includes Skype-to-Skype call functionality, IM capability to either individuals or groups, presence and the ability to receive calls to your SkypeIn number. Network connectivity is through whatever mobile internet connection is available, and calls use local air time, so users will need both a calling plan and a data plan on their mobile phones to use it. Charges will occur against air time, data plan time, and SkypeOut time if applicable; Skype recommends an unlimited data plan.

Android users can download the Skype Lite beta through Android Market. Java-enabled mobile users can download their version directly from Skype.

Meanwhile, Skype 1.0 Beta for Intel-based MIDs is designed for devices based on the Intel Atom processor and using the Moblin-based Linux OS. MIDs "typically" incorporate a 4 to 7-inch touch screen, camera, GPS, and WiFi connectivity; WiMAX or 3G/4G support may also be available on higher-end products. The beta supports free Skype-to-Skype voice and video calls, IM, group IM, SMS, call forwarding, voicemail, presence and the ability to receive calls from other Skype users or to your personal online number, plus the all-important low-cost international calls to the regular phone network.

For more:
- Skype's releases on Lite [1] and MID [1]