Logitech Press Release

The first-of-its-kind Logitech EasyCall Desktop is a complete solution for Internet calling and navigating the PC. The EasyCall Desktop’s full-duplex speakerphone includes Logitech(R) RightSound(TM) Technology, which eliminates echoes for clear headset-free Internet phone calls. The speakerphone acts as the control center for the Internet calling experience, with volume up and down, mute, call pick-up, and call hang-up buttons that make it easy for people to manage Internet calls. The product also comes with a stereo headset that can be plugged into a convenient port on the speakerphone when privacy is important.

A full communications panel on the stylish cordless keyboard provides people with the ability to launch Internet communications applications, easily change their online status, and make and accept calls. Convenient speed-dialing controls offer one-touch calling to friends, family, or co-workers. These easily accessible buttons can be used to store and dial either telephone numbers or IP addresses associated with user names. The product is optimized for use with Internet calling applications, such as Yahoo!(R) Messenger with Voice and AOL’s AIM(R) service in the U.S., and Skype(TM) in Europe.

The keyboard also offers one-touch access to applications such as e-mail and a Web browser, and a media panel makes it easy to control digital music in applications such as iTunes(R) and Windows Media(R) Player. The cordless mouse features Logitech’s high-performance laser technology, delivering exceptional precision and control on virtually any surface.

The Logitech EasyCall Desktop will be available in the U.S. and Europe beginning in mid-September. The suggested retail price in the U.S. is $129.99

Logitech and Skype Press Release

Logitech and Skype, the global Internet communications company, today announced that they have expanded their relationship by bringing a complete solution for Internet calling dedicated to Skype(TM) users worldwide: the Logitech(R) EasyCall(TM) Desktop. The European version of the desktop combines a mouse, headset and speakerphone with a Skype-specific keyboard for the first time ever.

The Skype-specific keyboard includes one-touch buttons for launching Skype software, placing a call, ending a call, changing the user’s online status, and dialing a mobile or traditional phone. The F9 to F12 keys act as programmable speed-dial buttons.

The two companies plan jointly to market the European version of the Logitech EasyCall Desktop, engaging in regional promotions and direct outreach to Logitech customers and the Skype community. The EasyCall Desktop will be available in stores throughout Europe beginning in mid-September. It will also be available through the Skype online store at Skype.com/store.

“Skype has been a driving force behind the success of Internet calling in Europe,” said Denis Pavillard, Logitech’s vice president of product marketing for keyboards and desktops. “Working with Skype, we’ve integrated the Skype Internet calling experience with a complete desktop solution, so that people can quickly access the Skype features they’ve come to rely on. And the desktop’s speakerphone means that people are now able to include friends and family on an Internet call.”

“We are delighted about the expansion of our relationship with Logitech,” said James Bilefield, general manager for Europe, Skype. “We’ve had great success working with Logitech to bring video to Skype users worldwide, and we are confident that this new desktop solution will make it easier than ever for people to place and receive Skype calls at their desk.”

In addition to the EasyCall Desktop, Logitech has added several new products to its roster of Skype Certified(TM) products, including the Cordless Internet Handset, QuickCam(R) STX for Skype(TM), QuickCam Chat for Skype(TM), and QuickCam Communicate STX for Skype(TM).

Logitech’s global relationship with Skype is a natural fit. The company holds market leadership positions with its Internet communications products — webcams and PC headsets — in many major markets, including the United States, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. It is also the leader in cordless desktops and mice.