RTX America, a world leader in wireless product development, announced the U.S. availability of DUALphone, a Skype-certified hybrid phone that allows consumers to combine the benefits of traditional phone lines with the advanced Skype Internet calling capabilities using a single cordless phone.

"With the growing popularity of consumer electronics, we are excited to be working with our partners to offer Skype-certified hardware," said James Bilefield, vice president of business development for Skype. "Skype allows people everywhere to connect quickly and easily with colleagues and loved ones. Skype certified products such as the DUALphone are making it even easier to communicate with those most important to you."

The DUALphone is easy to use and features wideband audio technology resulting in superior voice quality. The telephone features a highly intuitive user interface that bridges the gap between traditional phone service and the future world of VoIP. When placing a call, consumers dial as usual then press the PC button to dial using Skype or the telephone button to use traditional phone lines.

"We've eliminated the need to sit in front of a PC when placing Skype calls," said Chris Tubis, CEO of RTX America. "By creating a hybrid phone that supports standard telephone line service, we are providing customers with an easy way to integrate powerful Skype functionality into their everyday lives."

The included DUALphone charging station simultaneously connects to a traditional telephone socket and to a PC via USB. The DUALphone fully supports Skype to Skype, Skype to landline, landline to Skype and landline to landline calls.

In addition to standard telephone functionality the DUALphone features Skype-specific enhancements such as a display that lists a user's Skype contacts (presence) as well as an audible notification beep when a contact comes online. The DUALphone is one of many upcoming results of a marketing and license agreement between RTX and Skype.

RTX DUALphone Features:

• Internet calling/landline hybrid phone
• Skype certified
• Skype buddy list and status displayed on handset
• Superior wideband audio
• DECT 6.0 cordless technology (WiFi-friendly)
• Rechargeable and replaceable battery
• Backlit LCD display
• Standard headset connecter
• Multiple handset capacity
• Upgradeable firmware
• Range: Indoor 150 feet/Outdoor 1000 feet
• Distinctive ring indicates landline or Skype calls

Pricing and Availability

The RTX DUALphone is available immediately online at www.dualphone-us.com, the Skype Store www.skype.com/store and at select retail outlets. Suggested retail price for the DUALphone is US$139.99.