The new EQO Skype to Cell Phone service was announced today. I’ve read the page and it all sound very doable and perhaps worth a try in beta. You will incur Skype out Charges as well as any air time (minute charges) on your cell phone. There is also a data charge (from your Carrier) for the bandwith used to download the application ( I have a question out to them to see how big their download to your phone is). Lastly it’s free in beta but no indication of how much, or when there will be a cost.

In the end when you add up Skype Out + Cell phone minutes + potential charge for service, it may off set the benefits unless you truly use Skype as a business communications alternative day in day out. I may play with it just out of curiosity after I ask them about the download, and when they plan to go to a pay model.

After emailing EQO regarding the dowload bandwith , I was told “You will be charged by your carrier, unless you have a flat rate data plan, for initial download and for usage. Usage involves sending messages less than a Kb when EQO signs in, initiates calls and whatnot. Since EQO does not use mobile data as the media path for voice, data usage is not extensive. “

So, as they advise in their FAQ it woudl be best to have a liberal or unlimited data plan in order to use this service so that you do not get any surprizes in your bill. The size seems very small, however you need to al least be aware. Thanks to EQO for being very responsive to my questions.