Nokia has made Skype available as a free download from its Ovi online store. It will mean that for the first time Nokian's Symbian-based smartphones will get fully functional cheap internet calls.

The Skype for Symbian service allows users to make free Skype-to-Skype calls internationally, save money on regular international calls and to share files including pictures and video. Of course you have to be talking to other Skype users, but all it will cost you is your data connection.

Skype is fast becoming a force in mobile. Verizon Wireless said it will launch a Skype application in March which enables free domestic and cheap international calls for users who subscribe to a data service plan. The big idea is that users will buy expensive data plans and not worry about the cost of their calls.

The Skype for Symbian service is compatible with any Nokia device running the latest version of the mobile platform, including the N97 and E72 smartphones. Skype will soon make the service available for other Symbian phones from vendors including Sony Ericsson, Nokia said.