Wal-Mart takes Skype to the masses

Wal-Mart will offer Skype hardware and service throughout its 1,800 stores beginning today.

The move, which could be a boon for growing Skype's subscriber count, means that Wal-Mart will carry headsets, webcams and handsets designed to work with Skype.

Wal-Mart will also carry the first pre-paid Skype cards in the U.S. The cards are available for $20 and can be redeemed for calls. Another card includes a three-month membership to the Skype Unlimited Calling Plan for $8.85.

In theory, the Wal-Mart pact should bolster Skype's subscriber tally. While Skype is growing rapidly it still hasn't hit critical mass to the point of being a cash cow for eBay. As Om Malik notes  Skype has been trying with mixed success to boost its U.S. revenue.

In a statement, Skype noted that when users have a Skype certified accessory they use the service more.