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Skype has announced a beta version of its calling service for business users.

The new service, called Skype for SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) allows workers to make calls with traditional telephones, instead of a headset hooked up to a computer.

Skype for SIP will cost about 2.1 cents per minute for calls to cellphones and landlines. Calls to phone systems using existing Skype software will be free. Businesses can also purchase online Skype numbers available in over 20 countries to receive calls from contacts and customers who are using landlines or mobile phones.

Stefan Öberg

"The introduction of Skype for SIP is a significant move for Skype and for any communication intensive business around the world," said Stefan Oberg, VP and General Manager of Skype for Business.

"It effectively combines the obvious cost savings and reach of Skype with its large user base, with the call handling functionality, statistics and integration capabilities of traditional office PBX systems, providing great economical savings and increased productivity for the modern business."

Applicants for Skype for SIP will need to be businesses and have an installed SIP based IP-PBX system along with being able to configure their own SIP-enabled PBX. The initial beta is available to a limited number of participants. The product will fully launch later this year.