US Robotics has begun shipping a pair of USB-connected Skype handsets, one with a screen, the other without, but at least they're a tad more stylish than most add-ons for the popular VoIP app.

The USR809601 is the one with the display to make checking your SkypeOut minutes, online status and so on easy. The USR809602 has no screen, but since it's physically tethered to the machine running Skype, you can check your details there.

The screen-less device is also a fiver less expensive than the one with the display - it retails for £25, the USR809601 for £30. Both offer the customary echo-cancellation sound processing.

Both handsets are available now, US Robotics said. ®

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