UPDATE 2-AT&T allows Internet voice calls on Apple's iPhone

* Move would allow Skype to file iPhone app

* Skype applauds move, says gov't action still needed

* Apple says will move to get VoIP apps into App Store (Adds Apple comment)

WASHINGTON, Oct 6 (Reuters) - AT&T Inc (T.N) will open its third-generation wireless network to third-party Internet voice applications on Apple Inc's (AAPL.O) iPhone, clearing the way for services such as Skype.

AT&T said in a statement that the company informed Apple and the U.S. Federal Communications Commission of its decision.

"Today's decision was made after evaluating our customers' expectations and use of the device compared to dozens of others we offer," said Ralph de la Vega, head of AT&T Mobility & Consumer Markets.

The move allows Skype, owned by eBay Inc (EBAY.O), to file an application with Apple, which would then review it and decide whether to approve the app for its iPhone.

Apple praised AT&T's move and said it would move swiftly to make voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) apps available on the iPhone

"We are very happy that AT&T is now supporting VoIP applications," Apple spokeswoman Natalie Kerris said. "We will be amending our developer agreements to get VoIP apps on the App Store and in customers' hands as soon as possible."

The move was made the same day Verizon Wireless announced it will sell two mobile phones with Google Inc's (GOOG.O) Android operating system this year, part of a partnership that could boost Google's efforts to challenge Apple in the fast-growing smartphone market.

The first Android phones from Verizon Wireless, a venture of Verizon Communications Inc (VZ.N) and Vodafone Group Plc (VOD.L), will support the Google Voice software application -- allowing consumers to make low-priced international calls and which Apple had yet to approve for its iPhone.

Skype President Josh Silverman called AT&T's move the "right step" but cautioned that government actions are still needed to maintain an open Internet. Skype's application has been downloaded on 10 percent of all iPhone and iPod Touch devices, where it previously could be used over Wi-Fi, but not AT&T's 3G network.

"Nonetheless, the positive actions of one company are no substitute for a government policy that protects openness and benefits consumers," Silverman said. (Reporting by John Poirier and Gabriel Madway; Editing by Bernard Orr)