Google adds free talk functionality to Gmail, competing with Skype.

'Giant' Google officially launched the Google Voice function built into Gmail, similar to Skype, allowing users to call a phone number from a free email service.

Currently Google Voice is only valid for users in the US, can make calls directly from Gmail account. All calls to any phone number in the US and Canada region are free until the end of the year, while calls to the UK, France and China, Germany cost 2 cents per minute.

Earlier, Google also launched a call-to-computer service and video chat on Gmail.

'This is a landmark decision, because now millions of Gmail users can call directly to their phones from their Gmail account.' Craig Walker, director of real-time communication products, Google answers to BBC News. 'Users do not need to download or add any applications, but can immediately make good quality, low-cost calls.'

The Google Voice icon is displayed on the left of the Gmail page with a chat window. The phone call option will appear along with the phone number entry frame, allowing users to call the phone number of the necessary person.

Google said that currently, the charges from international calls will compensate for free calls in the US and Canada. Google Voice will face Skype's "heavyweight" rival, the most successful brand with Internet conversation service.

Skype claims that there are currently more than 560 million registered users, of which at least 124 people use at least once a month while 8.1 million customers pay monthly fees.