News

Skype testing software for mobile phones

By Ed Oswald | Published April 25, 2008, 2:54 PM

Skype is looking to expand its mobile offerings and is opening up a public beta for its mobile software.

About 50 different phone models are compatible with the Java-based software. It allows users to chat, show their online presence, and receive both calls from other users as well as through SkypeIn.

The company had been distancing itself from mobile Skype due to handset and technical issues for some time. However it now appears those hurdles have been overcome, and the VoIP software is ready for prime time on mobile devices.

Mobile operator 3 during that time brought Skype to the mobile, however it was not true VoIP as it is commonly found. Instead, the voice signals flowed through a separate voice channel on the company's network.

During the beta, the company will use consumer feedback to adjust the product to meet the needs of its users. Users in several markets also get additional features, including the placing of SkypeOut and Skype-to-Skype calls.

Brazil, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Poland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom will all have markets that gain those additional features. The beta is expected to last several months.

"We need to hear what delights them and where there is still work to be done," mobile chief Gareth O'Loughlin said of the beta. "This product underscores our commitment to innovation and to putting Skype conversations in the pockets of today's mobile masses."

Those interested in the beta can find instructions on how to obtain the software from the Skype Web site.

Comments

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yokozuna
Apr 27, 2008 - 3:59 AM

I am disappointed - the program does not even compare to Fring which also utilizes Skype.

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xyzcb1
Apr 25, 2008 - 3:22 PM

Thought there software already working in pocket pc? At least the ppcgeeks & xda developer communities are using it.

I don't use skype, so I don't know how well it works.

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preinterpost
Apr 25, 2008 - 3:34 PM

It works fine and for a long time. It's just one of those things taken for granted by the users but only getting the real hype when Apple starts marketing it a few years later (not looking like going to happen soon in this case...)

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