Skype Users Get Free, Unlimited Voice Conferencing

Skype users can now get unlimited, free conference calls for up to 500 participants per conference via Hightspeedconferencing.com.

The new service, provided by Vapps, a supplier of VoIP conference call solutions, is available immediately. Skype calls for each conference are free, but those who call in via landlines or cell phones will have to pay their normal long distance/national rate charges. But they do not pay additional fees.

Although the service is free today, Vapps says that it might eventually charge monthly subscription fees.

The service is targeted at home users as well as at businesses, but it may be a tough sell for larger enterprises. Many IT departments worry that Skype use could compromise the security of their corporate networks. In addition, Gartner recently issued a warning yet again that enterprises should stay away from using Skype.