Philips has launched a few cordless handsets which combine VoIP and PSTN for the Australian market. Customers have the option of either going for Microsoft Live broadband or Skype calling with regular PSTN networks but not both. Unfortunately these cordless phones won't work without a PC. These phones talk via DECT and the base stations is plugged directly into the computer.

First of all let's talk about the Microsoft version of the phone. It's costly as compared to the Skype version as it has a color screen. The Messenger version dubbed as VOIP 433 would be retailed at $159.95 for a single piece and $249.95 for the dual. The benefit that this phone offers is that it supports Microsoft Live's multiple account feature which enables user to select their own account and view their contact lists.

Its Skype counterpart (VoIP321) has a monochrome screen and is priced at $129.95 for a one set and $199.95 for two. Along with it one gets sixty minutes of call credits for SkypeOut calls. Equipped with an inbuilt speakerphone, this phone can recall the last twenty missed calls and ten received calls. Up to fifty phone numbers could be saved on this phone.

Both are speakerphones and allow teleconferencing of both handsets into a phone call. Simultaneously Skype/Live and PSTN calls are also allowed. Expect these phones for sale from the next month