A clever hack from iPhone developer NateTrue lets you put speed dial numbers on iPhones running software/firmware 1.1.3.

Here’s how it works:

1. Enter the URL: (phone number).tel.QLNK.net in MobileSafari then go to the page. This is a custom server from NateTrue that essentially makes bookmarklets out of the entered telephone number.

2. You’ll get a “Call” popup — hit cancel.

3. Now you will be at a Web page with the URL you entered in step 1.

4. Tap the “+” button at the bottom of the screen, then tap ‘Add to Home Screen’

5. Name the Web clip and and save the bookmark.

Now whenever you access the newly created bookmark icon, you’ll be presented with a “Call” popup

and can dial the number — only two taps necessary. NateTrue provides the following privacy disclaimer:

Due to the nature of this hack, your phone will request this page EVERY TIME you use a speed dial icon on your home screen. I assure you I will not use this data AT ALL FOR ANY REASON. It is entirely possible to put a similar script on your own web server, which will do the same thing without sending me any information; that course of action is recommended if you are at all concerned about your privacy.

See the original post for further customization options, including using your own icon for the speed dial. NateTrue also offers some interesting details indicating that iPhone software/firmware 1.1.3 is ready for official third-party applications.