Skype haven’t made much of a song and dance about updating their iPhone client to version 2.0, even though it now includes the ability to make VoIP calls over a 3G connection.  Why?  Because it may not be free forever.

First though, the good stuff.  Besides Skype’s new ability to make 3G VoIP calls, the update brings support for the SILK codec found on the iPhone 3GS for improved call quality, a quicker startup time and an improved call quality indicator too.

The bad news can be seen on the update notes inside the app.  It states that calls can be made using a 3G connection, but Skype-to-Skype calls will only be free until at least the end of August this year, when a small monthly charge will be introduced.

How much this ‘small monthly charge’ will be hasn’t been revealed, nor has how the charge will be collected; Skype credit is a possibility, but an in-app monthly subscription could also be implemented.  Of course, this new charge will be on top of your data plan too, making Skype a potentially expensive little app.

The timing of all this coincidentally comes a short while before we see a new iPhone, which is most likely to include a forward-facing video camera all ready for those lovely free Skype-to-Skype calls.  The sound of networks all around the world creaking under the strain has obviously played on Skype’s conscience, as even a token payment will put many off.

How is Skype’s decision to make us pay for their service going to affect usage?  Perhaps not as much as you would expect, as anyone who really wanted VoIP over 3G has already moved over to Fring, which has offered the service for a while and, as far as we know, intends to remain free.

(via Wired)