Big Picture Big Sound

Ready to converse with relatives on your big screen? Skype is about to send a little grandma in high-def. The web-based calling service has announced a deal with Panasonic that will put Skype on 2010 VIERA CAST-enabled HDTVs.

To access VIERA CAST, you don't need any external boxes or PCs. However, to use Skype, you will need a special Panasonic camera, which will be sold separately. Plug it into the TV and you will be able to make calls from your couch. It also transmits 720p high-def video, depending on your bandwidth.

"Today, 34 percent of all Skype-to-Skype calls include video," said Josh Silverman, CEO of Skype. "This is very exciting for us. TVs are a logical and natural platform for video communications. TVs will no longer be just the center of people's entertainment experience, but have the potential to be the center of people's communications experience."

Those using the Skype service via a Panasonic VIERA HDTV won't just enjoy a nice picture. There's also free Skype-to-Skype voice and video calls, Skype voicemail, and voice conference possibilities for up to 24 parties. Of course, it can also make calls to landline and cell phones, for a monthly fee.

Skype is just one of the many services that users can access via VIERA CAST. Others include Amazon Video On Demand, YouTube, Picasa photos Bloomberg News and weather information.

Panasonic plans to launch its 2010 VIERA CAST-enabled HDTVs this spring.