Skype and mobile phone group 3 said on Monday they have launched a mobile handset that allows users to access internet calls provider Skype while on the move.

The companies said in a statement that the new 3 Skypephone would allow Skype users to make free calls to each other from the mobile and also send free Skype instant messages.

In the UK, the phone will cost 49.99 pounds on a pay as you go basis, or free for 3 contract users. It will be on sale in 3's high street stores on Friday November 2.

The handset was developed by Skype and 3 in partnership with Qualcomm, using Qualcomm?s BREW platform to enable Skype to work with core handset features such as address book and messaging.

Skypephones will feature 3G, a 2-megapixel camera, mp3 player, mobile TV and internet.

"Skype is now truly mobile. This new handset lets you make free mobile Skype calls when you are on the move to other Skype users all over the world," Skype acting CEO Michael van Swaaij said in a statement.

Skype has 246 million registered users.