MySpace, Skype team up for VoIP calls over IM chats
updated 10:30 am EDT, Wed October 17, 2007
MySpaceIM with Skype
Skype today announced it had struck a deal with MySpace that would see its Internet telephone service link up with MySpace, giving the social networking site's members an easier way of communicating with each other without having to use text. The feature lets MySpace users either bring their existing accounts or link an existing Skype account to the latter's VoIP network, letting any MySpace member potentially call another as long as they know the other's profile name. A special version of MySpace's instant messaging app named MySpaceIM with Skype will let users of the IM network call each other in person for those that would prefer not to use the dedicated Skype tool. To prevent spam or unwanted attention, MySpace page owners will have the choice of limiting Skype calls to friends on either the social page or on Skype itself.
Normal calls between Skype members will be free; also available will be paid Skype features such as SkypeIn or SkypeOut calls to and from real-world numbers, according to the involved companies. Both the basic link between MySpace and Skype as well as the customized MySpaceIM software should be ready in November for every country with its own MySpace area.
