According to Business Week, Skype sales have surged 44%, to $551 million, last year and the company expects them to top $1 billion in 2011. The user base surged 47%, to 405 million, in 2008. Skype uses a technology called voice over Internet protocol, which treats calls as data like email messages and routes them over the Internet, rather than a traditional phone network., Skype's software, which can be downloaded free, allows users to call other Skype users on computers or certain cellphones for free. Skype users can also call land lines for a fee, typically 2.1 cents a minute, and conduct video calls.

The good news for individuals and businesses looking for developments in cost effectives phone numbers, Skype is entering new markets such as the iPhone application, which was the first one it released on March 31. Over 4 million people downloaded it in the first week. Skype remains one of the most popular free iPhone applications in more than 40 markets. The app has already been downloaded onto more than 10% of all iPhones and iPod touch media players.