Skype Lite Headed to Android Phones

— -- Skype is embracing the Android platform today with the expected launch of the Skype Lite app for devices running on Google's mobile OS. The application will enable T-Mobile G1 users to make cheap calls without the need of a mobile Internet connection and also chat via instant messages with people in their Skype friends list.

The company's first native VoIP client for Java, Skype Lite will also be available on many other Java-enabled phones, such as models from Nokia, Sony Ericsson, Motorola, LG and Samsung. Depending on your mobile price plan, you can use your inclusive minutes or call your Skype friends for the cost of a local call with the new Skype Lite. The instant messaging feature though, will use your data plan.

Skype has been expanding its reach lately to a variety of mobile devices, from Windows Mobile smartphones to Internet tablets like the Nokia N810. Now it's the turn of the Android OS to get Skype love, platform that is set to expand exponentially this year, on forthcoming devices from Samsung, LG, Motorola and Sony Ericsson. Apple's iPhone users will still have to wait for an official app from Skype, unless they decide to use 3^rd party services such as Fring.

Skype Lite was already available to many handset models from Nokia, SE, Samsung and Motorola, but in a beta stage. The coming release, for both Android and other devices, is expected make it prime time and move the app out of beta status. As for availability, it will take a few days for Skype Lite to appear on Android Marketplace, while the version for the other devices should be available later on today from the Skype website.