A new Skype client for the Symbian mobile OS has been launched by Skype and Nokia. Skype for Symbian will run on Nokia smartphone using Symbian^1.

The free client enables the users to make free Skype-to-Skype calls, send instant messages and share files, including photos, via a Wi-Fi or a 3G mobile data connection.

Different clients for Nokia phones with a touchscreen, including the Nokia N97 mini and the new X6, the E72, have been developed by Nokia and Skype.

Jean-Jacques Sahel, Director for Government and Regulatory Affairs at Skype in Europe, the Middle East and Africa revealed the plans of Skype to soon introduce versions of the clients for Symbian smartphones from other manufacturers, including Sony Ericsson.

The company Spokesman Paul De Lara said that developing a client for Android would remain the top priority, but he did not reveal the date of the launch.

Though the recently announced relationship with Verizon is a step towards Skype's progress, certain operators in the U. K, France, Spain and Germany who prohibit subscribers from using it or are charging discriminatory extra fees, remain a cause of concern for Skype.