Skype shuns Windows Mobile 7

Skype does not intend to develop voice over Internet protocol (VOIP) software for the Windows Mobile 7 operating system, reports After Dawn.

Skype reveals it will instead concentrate on software development for the iPhone, Symbian and Android operating systems.

This comes after Windows Phone 7 struggled with developer support, as just recently Mozilla claimed it would not be building Firefox Mobile for the operating system.

Microsoft plans to discontinue Response Point, its small business VOIP system for companies with up to 50 employees, states Channel Web.

Response Point functioned as an independent start-up within the tech giant and is part of the company's broader VOIP push; which is spearheaded by Office Communications Server.

"After taking a good look at the Microsoft Response Point offering and the needs of small businesses, we've decided to discontinue the sale, support, and development of the Response Point phone system for small businesses,” says Response Point programme manager John Frederickson.

Verizon Business has introduced a service that reduces international mobile roaming costs for European enterprises, says Computer Weekly.

The service is available only to businesses based in nine European countries, including the UK, but will be extended to Asia-Pacific as soon Verizon's VOIP infrastructure in the region is complete.

The company says the service offers a universal phone number with 'follow me' capabilities to reach users immediately on fixed or mobile phones to boost productivity.