3 launches VoIP

Italian 3G mobile operator 3 has launched an international voice-over-IP service, allowing customers to use internet connections to make cheap calls abroad. Calls can be made to 23 countries for EUR0.05 per hour, up to a limit of ten hours a day. The service only allows calls to fixed line numbers in most of the countries covered, but in the US, Canada, China, Hong Kong and Singapore IP-based calls can be made to either fixed or mobile numbers. 3 is offering the service in partnership with VoIP provider Skype.