Skype teams up with Comcast, bringing VoIP to a TV near you

Skype Ltd. has teamed up with Comcast Corp. in a move aimed to bring high-definition video calling to the television.
A press release today said Comcast customers would soon be able “to experience widescreen HD video calling that is immersive and natural,” from their TV screen to Skype friends using either their TVs, PCs, compatible smartphones or tablets.
Comcast says the move will enable its customers to “make and receive Skype video and audio calls, or send instant messages via Skype on a television while watching their favorite TV show at the same time, and accept incoming calls during a TV show with the help of Caller ID.”
Comcast customers interested in using the service will need an HDTV and special adaptor box, as well as a high-quality video camera, though the price for the hardware, or for using the service, is not mentioned.
Comcast says it will also release a specially designed remote control “that enables customers to text on Skype as well as control their television.” Those on the receiving end of the call, says the release, don’t need any special equipment aside from their regular Skype tools.
The service, which will be available “in the coming months,” will also allow regular Skype actions such as importing contacts from their phone, Outlook, Facebook and Gmail.