Gone are days when VoIP was looked upon an elite technology restricted to the geeks. Now, VoIP is mass technology. In a gesture to further popularize the VoIP services among the common man, Skype has reached out a distribution deal with retail-giant Wal-Mart this week.
It is beneficial for both Skype and Wal-Mart. From now on, the Wal-Mart customers can get Skype-certified headsets, webcams and handsets from recognized manufacturers including Plantronics, Philips, and Logitech in more than 1800 Wal-Mart stores.
These products allows customers to enjoy Skype services such as voice, video calls and instant messaging.
As per the agreement, Wal-Mart will sell Skype certified headsets for $15, webcams for $25 and handsets for $30 from different hardware developers.
In addition to Skype products, the customers can also get pre-paid Skype cards for $20.
Skype is not the first company to sell its products in Wal-Mart stores. Vonage has also associated with Wal-Mart to sell its products. It means that VoIP players are now joining with retailers to hit the mass market.
Nearly 9.9 percent of all landlines in USA were VoIP lines last year. It would touch 34.1 percent in the next three years. Therefore, it is highly beneficial for the VoIP players to get associated with retailers to cater the demand for VoIP products.
