Skype for iOS updated, adds video calling [U]
updated 02:00 am EST, Thu December 30, 2010
Works over Wi-Fi or 3G, also does one-way video
[Updated with voucher news] Skype for iOS devices has been updated to version 3.0, bringing FaceTime-like call quality to both Wi-Fi and 3G for iOS devices capable of running iOS 4 or higher. Two-way video calling -- in either portrait or landscape mode -- is supported for the iPhone 4, fourth-generation iPod Touch, and iPhone 3GS. Receiving one-way video calls is supported on the iPad and third-generation iPod Touch (the app has not, however, been upgraded to a universal binary for iPad owners). In addition, iPhone 4 and fourth-gen Touch owners can switch between front or back cameras.
The free update allows video calling between Skype users on desktop or laptop computers, as well as other iPhone and iPod Touch owners who have the app open or running in the background. As before, audio calling and instant-messaging is available for all models of iOS devices (some iPod Touch models will need a headset and microphone). Skype initially expressed an interest in using FaceTime to help it achieve video-calling on mobile devices, but later said it would use its own methods.
As noted on the app's updated page, 3G video calling may incur data costs.
In a related development, the company has begun emailing vouchers to compensate customers affected by the recent outage of service, and has posted a full post-mortem of the event on its company blog as promised. The voucher codes are good for 30 minutes of free domestic Skype-to-telephone calling, which works with landlines or mobile devices, or $1 credit towards international calls.
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Skype v FaceTime
FaceTime may be great but Skype has the mass of customers who are already happy with what they have. FaceTime may even be superior in some ways but Skype will call between Macs and PCs. I see Skype being the #1 video calling App for a very long time to come and FaceTime being a distant second. Skype is too far ahead and their service is pretty good. I don't see this as a technology Apple can make their own.