I have a friend who needs a phone and cheap plans without a contract. I remember reading something about the buying the Nexus 1 unlock and then getting the T-mobile internet plan plus skype for calling. So it was something like $39 for the internet and $3 for skype per month, so about $42. I was looking at the T-Mobile G1[used, refurb] since it was a cheap android phone, using that plan, it would be cheaper then a regular monthly plan and pre paid.Does this plan really work and you can use the internet and call anyone on mobile and landlines for free using skype? I’m assuming you need the internet to use skype and then you can use skype to call people?

T-Mobile do not allow bar you from downloading Skype.

They do prohibit its use via GPRS/3G/HSPDA.

If they discover you’re using it this way, they apparently reserve the
right to cancel any contract you may have with T-Mobile

You can of course use Skype via wifi (although maybe not T-Mobile wifi
hotspots?)

Another alternative for you is to use 07744 callthroughs to ring Japan
(comes out of inclusive mins).