Skype launches lite version for Android platform

VoIP provider Skype has launched a lite version for use on Android platforms and Java-enabled mobile phones.

The updated software now makes Skype available to millions of mobile users worldwide and does not require a WiFi connection, working wherever the phone has enough signal to operate.

"Making the Skype experience available for download to Android-powered devices, as well as hundreds of other mobile phones from the world's leading handset manufacturers is a major step forward for Skype," said Scott Durchslag, chief operating officer at the VoIP software firm.

The lite version uses local airtime and a mobile internet connection to sign in to Skype, so users must have a calling and data plan on their mobile phones to use it.

Last week, Motorola launched its new mobile device, the WiMAX cpei 755, which combines WiMax, WiFi, VoIP and Ethernet, as well as including a modem, router and ATA ports.