Skype is introducing toolbars that allow its internet telephony service to be integrated into Microsoft Office and Outlook Express desktop applications.

The company has also launched a toolbar for browser Thunderbird and upgraded its existing toolbars for Internet Explorer and Firefox. There is also an upgrade to the Skype Toolbar for Outlook.

The aim is to allow Skype users to call any phone number contained in a Microsoft Office document, email or Web page with one click. Each of the Skype toolbars will recognize a phone number and enable a user to initiate calls, send instant messages and transfer files.

All Skype toolbars are free and backwards compatible, supporting all versions of Microsoft Office through Office 2000 (Outlook/Office 2000, XP and 2003), Firefox 1.5 and 2.0 (beta), as well as Internet Explorer 5.5, 6.0 and 7.0 (beta).

“Extending Skype functionality into popular computer applications brings simple communication and collaboration to our customers,” said Alistair Shrimpton, Skype Market Development Manager for UK, Ireland and Netherlands.

“With our new toolbars, a Skype user can instantly connect with the desired party with just one click, making Internet calling extremely convenient.”

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