ClearOne, a provider of audio conferencing solutions, reportedly has launched a new group speakerphone it calls ‘CHAT 160’ -- specifically designed for use with Skype (News - Alert) software.

Skype is a software application that helps users to make voice calls over the Internet. This VoIP communications service allows users to make local and international calls to landline as well as mobile phones via PSTN networks. It also receives calls from these phones on a PC, and includes instant messaging, file transfer as well as video conferencing features.

The Skype Certified CHAT 160 is an addition to a company’s USB speakerphones and offers high-quality, hands-free audio communication for any individuals or groups using Skype.

ClearOne (News - Alert) said that its CHAT 160 group speakerphone is a powerful full-duplex device that delivers crystal-clear audio for voice and video communication. Connecting to laptops or PCs via USB, the plug-and-play device is ideal for small conference rooms and executive or home offices. It houses three sensitive microphones, providing 360 degree pickup for Skype users.

With the help of ClearOne’s HDConference, the CHAT 160 is capable of delivering wideband audio performance. HDConference is a suite of audio technologies present in company’s professional conferencing systems. The HDConference includes technologies and functionalities such as full duplex, “Distributed Echo Cancellation,” noise reduction, automatic level controls and adaptive modeling.

 “As with our recently-released CHAT 60 personal speakerphone, the CHAT 160 underwent rigorous testing as part of Skype’s certification process to ensure it performed to a set of exacting standards,” Tracy Bathurst, CTO at ClearOne, said in a press release. “Companies that use Skype now have a powerful, yet portable collaboration tool for crystal clear group audio and video conferences.”

Manrique Brenes, director of business development and product management for consumer electronics at Skype, added: “As Skype usage continues to grow worldwide, many of our users around the world are looking for high quality hands-free peripherals. The CHAT 160 will enable them to communicate more effectively.”

Available at Skype Shop, the new CHAT 160 speakerphone has a suggested retail price of $399.99.