Since we’re knee-deep in new report creation mode here, this post isn’t going to be too long. But some news nuggets from different parts of the communications world got me to thinking… is it time for Skype and WiMax to do the peanut butter-n-chocolate thing?
One on hand, you’ve got Clearwire experimenting with VoIP handsets in Portland, Ore., the town that may yet go down as the Capital of WiMax before this is all over. On the other you’ve got Skype (and Asterisk) talking about making it easier to interact with SIP and by extension, small business phone systems.
Now throw in some Skype mobile handsets and what do we have?
Probably not anything the Clearwire folks want too badly, since they are counting on VoIP subscriptions to increase ARPU. But… imagine how interesting a WiMax service pitch would be if you got a free Skype phone as part of the signup deal. If anyone wants to continue this conversation over drinks in Vegas, I’m buying…
What clearwire is lacking is what Skye has: USERS. Skype has been noticeably absent in the mobile space: no iPhone app and only recently a Nokia client. The benefits for both sides seem obvious.
I completely agree. Most of Skype users are moving from just chatting with friends and family to be serious business users.
I started using Skype for my start-up business 9 months ago. I’m very impressed with the quality of the service. I bought 3 phone numbers (those are a separate service) and started using them as my main business lines. They are flawless.
This the most logical move for both companies.