Telecoms giant blocks Skype app

Just two days after its launch last week, Skype, now for Apple's iPhone, passed the one million mark in downloads, reports Tech Jackal.

However, Deutsche Telekom, the parent company of T-Mobile, announced plans to block it in Germany for one and a half years because of the possibility of excessive traffic. This traffic could put too much strain on its cellular network as well as the WiFi connection needed for iPhones with Skype to be used to call other Skype users worldwide for free.

The latest iPod Touch can also use this application, available from Apple's iTunes App Store, because it has WiFi ability and a microphone. Coming in May, Skype will be available on BlackBerries and later on Nokia phones and others.

Microsoft has released an updated application that provides tighter integration between Windows Live services and the company's mobile platform, according to InformationWeek.

Windows Live for Windows Mobile 10 offers a variety of services for Microsoft-powered handsets like the Touch Pro and the Samsung Omnia. On the e-mail side, it provides more robust connectivity with Microsoft's Web-based e-mail by bringing full push and pull capabilities. This means Hotmail users can get their messages on the go quickly and nearly in real-time.

Users also will be able to get mobile access to Windows Live Messenger, Windows Live Contacts, Live search, and Live Spaces.

Aircel Cellular, the Indian unit of Malaysia's Maxis Communications, is in talks to acquire Loop Mobile (earlier BPL Mobile), which is currently managed by the Ruias of the Essar group, states The Economic Times.

Both companies have been holding discussions for around seven months now, two people familiar with the discussions told ET.

While both Loop and Maxis denied being in negotiations, one person close to Loop Mobile confirmed the development. Aircel and Loop have not reached an agreement over the valuation of the Mumbai-circle operator. “Valuation has complicated the process. More so, because market conditions have changed since the time talks started over seven months ago,” said the source.