SanDisk and Skype Introduce U3-Compatible VoIP Software

SanDisk Corporation and Skype have announced a partnership that allows Skype users to make free calls and chat on almost any Microsoft Windows-based PC without having to download software.

The Skype software will come pre-loaded on SanDisk's newest Cruzer Micro and Cruzer Titanium lines of Skype-certified U3 enabled smart drives. This will allow consumers to make free PC-to-PC audio and video calls to Skype users in most major markets by simply inserting their smart drives into a computer's USB port.

The new drives will display the Skype logo on the packaging and will feature one free month of Skype voicemail for the mobile user to get messages from their Skype calls even when on the go.

The SanDisk Cruzer Micro with Skype preloaded is available at retail outlets in the USA and Europe, including Skype's online store, for suggested retail prices ranging from US$39.99 to US$199.99. Capacities are 512 megabytes (MB), 1 gigabyte (GB), 2GB and 4GB.

SanDisk Cruzer Titanium with Skype comes in 1GB and 2GB, at suggested prices of US$74.99 and US$119.99 respectively, and is now shipping in most major markets.