VoIP giant partners with Polycom to deliver hands-free, two-way voice and video

VoIP and messaging firm Skype has partnered with US comms equipment manufacturer Polycom to deliver the Polycom Communicator, a Skype-certified, co-branded USB speakerphone for businesses.

Skype estimates that business customers make up 30 per cent of its more than 100 million registered users.

The Communicator delivers hands-free, two-way voice communication for Skype voice and video conversations, providing a portable personal speakerphone for individuals or small groups.

Call function buttons on the device are integrated with the Skype application, enabling users to launch Skype on their computer and control volume, as well as pick-up and hang-up calls.

The unit is the size of a PDA and connects to a computer via an integrated USB cable which also provides power.

Will Stofega, research manager for VoIP services at analyst firm IDC, said: "Skype is making inroads into business environments which require business-quality solutions."

The Polycom Communicator costs around $129.