Samsung TVs to come with Skype

Starting this spring, the TVs in Samsung's B7000 and B8000 will include Skype software allowing users to make voice and video calls.

Models in the 2009 B7000/B8000 range aren't included, and won't be upgraded: it's only the 2010 collection that will get the new features.  To benefit from it, you'll need an Internet connection that you can link up to your TV, either using a network cable or over WiFi.  You'll also need to get a Samsung Freetalk TV camera, which Skype will sell in its online store.

As with the PC-based service, calls between two Skype users will be free, but calls to fixed lines and mobiles are charged at a ex pence per mintue.

With the growing popularity of multimedia features and web-based content, TVs are slowly but surely becoming the digital media hub at the heart of the home--and this latest service is yet another example of that.

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