Skype launches free SMS service

A free feature that lets users send short text messages to mobile phones from internet phone service Skype was being made available for testing starting on Thursday.

Prior to Thursday, people downloading the Skype software could only receive text messages, according to Silicon.com.

"Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services such as Skype are based on the same technological underpinnings as instant messages, which appear on PC desktops. Net phone operators are using text messaging to create a bridge between mobile phones and PC desktops.

By closing the message loop, Skype has outdone Yahoo!, AOL and Microsoft, which make the most popular instant-message software. AIM, Yahoo! Messenger and MSN Messenger only allow the sending of SMS."

emily | 2:50 PM | Technology |
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