Skype is apparently close to launching an iPhone version of its voice and IM service. According to GigaOM, citing a "very reliable" source, the eBay-owned company could announce an application for the iPhone as soon as next week during the wireless CTIA tradeshow in Las Vegas that starts on April 1. The move hasn't been confirmed by either party yet but Skype has previously suggested that such client was in the works.
If true, no doubt the networks will be less than pleased with the news. However, the VoIP provider already offers a Windows Mobile version of its client and moving onto other mobile platforms only seems like the next logical step to keep its business growing. Users can already get Skype for the iPhone using third party apps, like Fring or Truphone, but a standalone Skype client could certainly boost adoption among those who want to make inexpensive calls without being tied to their computers. It remains to be seen however if the service will be restricted to Wi-Fi networks only.