Windows Phone Thoughts: PocketSkype for Pocket PC Now in Public Beta

Skype has released a public beta version of their PocketSkype client. "PocketSkype is free software that enables you to make Skype voice calls using your WiFi-enabled Microsoft PocketPC based handheld computer from any WiFi hotspot." PocketSkype requires a Pocket PC with a 400 MHz processor and Windows Mobile 2003.

I was lucky enough to get into the closed beta, and I've been testing this for the last week or so. It's a very slick program. Voice quality is great, it works fine for calls between the Pocket PC and a desktop client, the installation footprint is only 1.9mb, and you don't even need a headset (although it helps). Your Pocket PC's built-in mic will work, and headphones will ensure that you can clearly hear the person on the other end.

Skype's flavor of VoIP (voice over internet protocol) works over WiFi only, although the Instant Messaging portion of the program works just dandy over GPRS. At the moment, you can only use Skype to talk to other Skype users - there's no cross compatibility with landline phone networks or other VoIP systems. Future VoIP rulings in several countries may change that, however.

If you've been hearing the buzz about VoIP but haven't tried it out yet, now's your chance! Download it and let us know what you think! 8)