Panasonic will soon release the KX-WP800, a wireless LAN (WLAN) telephone system supporting "Skype" Internet calls. Featuring a Skype-based software application in the handset shaped like a mobile phone, the system enables voice calls without using a PC. Using the dedicated WLAN router packed with the phone, users can enjoy voice calls without being bothered with complicated settings. In addition, the quality of communications between the WLAN router and the handset is enhanced using proprietary control technology, the company said. The telephone system also allows use of the user-based "FON" WLAN sharing service. Thanks to this capability, users can bring their handsets outside their homes and use Skype via the roughly 32,000 FON access points in Japan. Housing a 20mm-diameter speaker, the handset is capable of handsfree calls. Its contact list can store up to 500 names. Its WLAN format is IEEE802.11b and features security functions including WPA2-PSK (AES). The WLAN router is equipped with a WAN port and an RJ-45 LAN port, both in compliance with 10Base-T/100Base-TX. It supports IEEE802.11g/b WLAN formats, as well as security functions including WPA2-PSK (AES/TKIP). The router measures 148 x 33 x 51mm and weighs roughly 150g. The straight type handset measures 142 x 45 x 20mm and weighs about 100g. Combined with the dedicated WLAN router, its built-in Li-ion secondary battery allows continuous standby for 55 hours and continuous communications for 4.5 hours. It features a 65,000-color, 1.8-inch TFT LCD panel. Panasonic KX-WP800 will be available from March 28, 2008 for approximately ¥29,800 (US$290).