Skype launches free SMS service

London-based software developer Connectotel on Thursday unveiled a test version of free software that promises to expand short message service (SMS) functions for the popular Skype internet phone service. Connectotel's "Skype to SMS" software lets users send short text messages to mobile phones from the service. Natively, Skype users can receive SMS messages, but not send them.

Connectotel managing director Marcus Williamson said its Skype to SMS product lets Skype users leapfrog Yahoo!, AOL and Microsoft, which make the most popular instant-message software. AIM, Yahoo! Messenger and MSN Messenger only allow the sending of SMS, he said.

Ben Charny writes for CNET News.com.