Skype today released the beta version of Skype 2.2 for Windows Mobile that supports smartphones and enhances support for Pocket PC devices.

Now available for smartphones powered by Windows Mobile software, as well as Pocket PCs, including those using lower-power processors, the latest incarnation of Skype software further extends Skype use beyond desktop or notebook computers.

“Skype for Windows Mobile gives our users more freedom to use Skype on the go and is key to our mobility strategy,“ said Eric Lagier, Head of Business Development, Mobile. “We’ve now added support for smartphones and expanded the range of supported Pocket PCs. In fact, over 90 percent of Windows Mobile devices with WiFi can now run Skype software. We’re absolutely delighted that millions of more people can have Skype conversations on the move and without a computer in sight.“

Skype for Windows Mobile can be downloaded for free at skype.com/go/mobile.

Key features and benefits in Skype 2.2 for Windows Mobile beta include:

• NEW: Support for Windows Mobile smartphones and more Pocket PC devices;
• NEW: Enhanced today screen: presence status, event notification (missed calls, new chat messages and voicemails);
• NEW: Proxy support: Supports regular HTTP or HTTPS proxies, and authenticating HTTPS/SSL and SOCKS5 proxies
• Skype calling features: Free Skype-to-Skype calls, support for SkypeOut, SkypeIn, voicemail and call forwarding;
• One-click Skype access: A Skype icon on the home screen lets users view and call contacts easily;
• Multi-person chat: Users can have multichat sessions using animated emoticons. When mobile users are offline, chat messages will automatically update the next time user logs in;
• Enhanced contact list: Users can see their contacts avatars and mood messages;
• Profile personalization: Users can take a picture with the camera on their mobile device and immediately update their profile.