Linksys, a division of leading communications firm Cisco Systems, announced its family of voice-over-Internet protocol (VoIP) iPhone devices and Cisco has apparently had the trademark on the name since the 90s.

The new family of phones includes models compatible with Skype and Yahoo! Messenger and can be used to call traditional landlines as well as use such services as Skype, SkypeOut, SkypeIn and Skype voicemail. In addition, some of the phones support various multimedia capabilities as well as Web browsing.

Cisco said its iPhone Wireless-G IP device includes a Web browser that lets customers access music, photos, and streaming video from sources on the Internet so they can combine the product with wireless video cameras to create a real-time home monitoring solution.

"As the next generation of handheld devices, Linksys iPhone voice solutions and products are changing the way people communicate with their friends, family and colleagues. They enable compelling internet services, allow consumers to know when their contacts are available for calls, and offer access to personal content like music, movies and live video cameras." said Mike Pocock, Linksys senior vice president and general manager.

Until now, analysts and members of the media have associated the iPhone with Apple Computer's iPod cell phone project. The iPod maker retains ownership of the iPhone.org domain name and has also filed for trademarks on the term at overseas trademark offices.

The Cisco's phones do not affect Apple's plans to release a phone, which is still expected, probably under a distinct product name -in the first quarter of 2007.

The seven models launched are:

iPhone Cordless Internet Telephony Kit ($79.99)
iPhone Dual-Mode Internet Telephony Kit ($99.99)
iPhone Dual-Mode Cordless Phone for Yahoo! Messenger with Voice ($99.99)
iPhone Dual-Mode Internet Telephony Kit for Skype ($179.99)
iPhone Wireless-G IP Phone ($219.99)
iPhone Wireless-G Phone for Skype ($199.99)
iPhone Wireless-G IP Phone ($369.99)

written by Cristian L.