Panasonic announced on March 5 the availability of the Panasonic KX-WP1050 Wi-Fi phone for use with Skype.
The KX-WP1050 is one in a series of planned products that are Skype Certified, according to Panasonic. This new device uses Wi-Fi access to allow Skype users to make and receive free Skype-to-Skype calls, make SkypeOut calls to landlines and mobiles worldwide, and receive SkypeIn calls from landlines and mobiles. With the included Wi-Fi base unit, the solution is simple to plug in and use, without using a PC, stated Panasonic.
According to Panasonic, the KX-WP1050 frees Skype users from their PCs, allowing Internet calls in the home, office or other open Internet access points. Business travelers, for example, can set up a Wi- Fi hotspot in their hotel room, as long as there is an available broadband Internet connection, noted the company.
Panasonic said it has improved the user experience by providing a complete kit, which can be set up and used by virtually anyone. The included travel router takes the complexity out of setting up the Wi-Fi access point, and guarantees a secure wireless connection with automatic 256-bit AES encryption setup (WPA). The AC adapter is compatible with all voltages from 100V to 240V, so it can be used by simply attaching the AC plug (sold separately) for that country.
This new model offers the range and security of WPA encrypted Wi-Fi technology, as well as Quality of Service (QoS) to improve voice quality, according to Panasonic. It features easy menu-driven operation, and a handset speakerphone, as well as a built-in headset jack, is 0.62-inches thick and weighs less than four ounces. The 730mAh Lithium-ion battery can provide up to a 55 hours standby time, and 4.5 hours talk time, and can be charged with the included travel router, or from a USB connection on a PC, noted the company.
The KX-WP1050 is available through online Internet retailers with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of US$399.
The Panasonic KX-WP1050 Wi-Fi phone for use with Skype
Photo: Company
