Skype have released a Beta version of Skype For Your Mobile that operates on java-enabled phones to connect you to your friends.

The Beta features chat, presence and you can receive calls with SkypeIn however the service does still use the minutes on your phone as it diverts calls through a local number, rather than being a true VoIP solution.

Outgoing calls are limited to those in Brazil, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Poland, Sweden and UK but other functions will work elsewhere.

Set to deepen Skype’s market penetration and possibly opening the door for mobile VoIP solutions for Sony Ericsson P1i among others, the Skype Beta is a promising step forward in affordable mobile communications.

For more information on compatibility and functionality options visti Skype’s website here.