I think the device market is under-rated by the traditional IM clients. This example from Ascalade (VON brochure) is a residential dual phone that can connect with both VoIP clients and PSTN simultaneously. Note this one doesn't work with Skype yet, it's designed to work with SIP solutions. Still embed Skype in the box and who needs a computer?

When could we see a Skype version? Perhaps sometime early in the new year. What's the achillies heel for all these devices? I see two currently. They haven't yet solved the text chat messaging opportunities, while many are stuck with memory problems when you have more than 80 - 100 buddies.

Do you want to make internet telephony easier to use and more accessible? Do you want the option of taking Skype calls on your home cordless phone (or any phone)? In my case I want the family to make cheap calls to New Zealand without messing with my PC and yet having simple access to SkypeOut.

Perhaps you are not yet ready to splurge on a DUALphone, although those SkypeOut minutes to global destinations are saving you a bundle.

Introducing UConnect, another great product from VoIPVoice. Now one device brings all the features of Skype and Internet telephony into the cordless phone you have on your desktop. UConnect brings all the neat features VoIPVoice has programmed to work with the CyberPhoneK and lets you use them on your cordless phone.

If you have a recent cordless phone with an LCD, UConnect will enable:

• Skype Caller ID for inbound calls for phones with an LCD.
  
• Easy access to both Landline or SkypeOut or easy dialing out.
  
• Easy buddylist dialing with voice activated confirmation
  
• Voice announcements of who's calling optional.
  
• Skype voice mail notification
  
• Second or third line (or more) with SkypeIn numbers.

UConnect is one of those devices that you look at and say... that's different. There's some sense to the design with its integrated USB connector (also comes with an extension cable) which makes it easy to travel with (use those non digital phones where still available in hotels) or simply press it into the back of a desktop PC. UConnect will work in both USB mode connected to Skype and or just connected to your landline.

Your computer has to be running for Skype to function. Don't expect the sound quality to be Skype headset like. This is not the fault of the device rather dependent on your cordless phone. However, PSTN quality (what your handset was designed for) will be perfectly adequate for the times you want to move and sit out on the deck talking.

UConnect is on the first Skype certified products. That means it meets Skype's quality charter and has met the requirements of Skype's certification program.

UConnect will be released shortly, at a price of US$59.99 which is competitive with competing devices which currently don't offer the same slick Skype feature integration. Watch the VoIPVoice store for more details.

Reader Jim Courtney referred me to Tom's Networking which reports on a new Cisco phone for Skype. Mark Evans obviously like the Canadian input too. We shouldn't be too surprised Mike Volpi of Cisco sits on Skype's board. Tom's suggest the retail price will be south of $100. That seems a reasonable guess. More importantly the connective wireless hardware is labeled with VoIPVoice. They are the ones behind the neat CyberphoneK Skype integration. My guess is we will see some surprises when this product releases in user functionality.