How will the FCC's 911 ruling effect Skype and other carriers? Will other carriers adopt Skype's strategy. Skype's current strategy leaves them exempt as SkypeOut is a prepaid calling card while SkypeIn is the opposite offering an inbound number only. Each product is stand alone and thus not a replacement service. As long as they aren't bundled together in one pricing package it's pretty hard to associate E911 requirements with them. As a result I'd look for other struggling VoIP providers to unbundle their services. That will put even more pressure on incumbent telecoms.

Skype provided the following comment on the FCC ruling today.

Skype commends the FCC for moving quickly to ensure that users of VoIP who expect 911 service get 911 service. Skype also applauds the FCC's effort to make sure that 911 service will work by recognizing that many parties, not just VoIP providers, play a role in opening the existing 911 system to new technologies. Skype looks forward to working with the FCC to develop appropriate emergency response solutions for IP-based communications services. Kelly Larabee

Listen also to the FCC Meeting.