18 October 2007
A potentially groundbreaking internet hook-up has been announced, with social networking site MySpace to offer a bill-free internet phone service powered by online telecom pioneers Skype.
The potential online reach of the new deal is enormous: MySpace has 110 million members worldwide - while 220 million users have registered with Skype according to the Associated Press.
Both sites are also backed by corporate heavy hitters: MySpace is owned by broadcasting tycoon Rupert Murdoch's News Corp, while the free phone service was recently bought out by auction site eBay.
In an interview with Associated Press, MySpace vice president Kyle Brinkman allayed consumer fears by saying that the service would be private and secure, with users having the option of 'blocking' selected individuals from calling them if they chose.
He added that the Skype service, to be installed as part of the networking site's instant messaging software, was "not just a stand-alone product offering - it's tightly integrated into the MySpace experience".
Although calling from PC to PC will be free, a fee will be levied for making PC-to-telephone calls as well as for taking a personal phone number and for services such as voicemail.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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