The Irish version of eBay, the auction website, is to add Skype voice-calling features onto its website next month in a move the company said would make it easier for buyers and sellers to communicate with each other.

The new service lets sellers include free voice calls over the internet and instant messaging to their listings. These functions will be available as a a “Skype Me” button on the eBay.ie listings page that buyers see.

By clicking the button, buyers will be able to talk to sellers or use Skype instant messenger to ask about items and discuss deliveries or postage. The communications will be available at no cost to the user, eBay.ie said.

The feature will be available from the middle of to add Skype next month on a pilot basis. It will first be trialled in several categories such as art, antiques, stamps, coins, pottery and glass, sports memorabilia, real estate, baby products, musical instruments and audio consumer electronics.

According to eBay, these categories were selected because Skype will make the transactions easier in cases where there may be high selling prices, complex products or categories in which buyers may need extra details about the items for sale.

John McElligott, head of customer development at eBay Ireland, said the company expects the service will reassure buyers and will “dramatically” increase sales, both in volume and value.

Posted: 06|27|06 at 12:25 pm. Filed under: Online Auctions.