May 14th, 2007
Wal-Mart takes Skype to the masses
Wal-Mart will offer Skype hardware and service throughout its 1,800 stores beginning today.
The move, which could be a boon for growing Skype's subscriber count, means that Wal-Mart will carry headsets, webcams and handsets designed to work with Skype.
Wal-Mart will also carry the first pre-paid Skype cards in the U.S. The cards are available for $20 and can be redeemed for calls. Another card includes a three-month membership to the Skype Unlimited Calling Plan for $8.85.
In theory, the Wal-Mart pact should bolster Skype's subscriber tally. While Skype is growing rapidly it still hasn't hit critical mass to the point of being a cash cow for eBay. As Om Malik notes Skype has been trying with mixed success to boost its U.S. revenue.
In a statement, Skype noted that when users have a Skype certified accessory they use the service more.
Larry Dignan is Editor in Chief of ZDNet and Editorial Director of ZDNet sister site TechRepublic. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations.
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