US-based Linksys brought out their first Skype phones way back in the summer of 2004, but the two new phones in their iPhone range are the first two Skype phones they’ve bought out that don’t need PCs to run. Both are being released in the US immediately, which should hopefully mean that US-based customers will be able to get their hands on them from retailers such as Amazon in time for Christmas. In fact, Amazon are already listing them here and here!

So, first to the CIT400 cordless DECT/Skype phone, a worthy successor to the CIT300. The phone combines a standard DECT cordless phone with the ability to make and receive calls via Skype, as well as access your Skype contact list and Skype Voicemail. It also has a built-in speakerphone and, excellently, is powered by two rechargeable AA batteries which give a quoted 120 hours of standby and 6 hours of talktime.

Like other cordless Skype phones such as the Philips VOIP841 and the DUALPhone 3088, the basestation plugs directly into your wireless or Ethernet router, meaning your PC doesn’t have to be switched on to use Skype on it.

The WIP 320 on the other hand doesn’t need a basestation at all, as it operates directly via wifi. Whilst this means it doesn’t let you make calls via your landline, it does also mean that you can stick the phone in your pocket whilst on the move and use it with any wifi network which doesn’t require you to sign on to it from a webpage. The user interface is similar to the CIT400, allowing you to access contacts, Skype voicemail and set your Skype status straight from the phone.

Prices are as yet unannounced, but according to the press release, the cordless CIT400 should come in at around $179.99 in the US, with the WIP 320 weighing in at $199.99. As they say in the US: Happy Holidays!