Skype involvement remains unknown

Facebook may be working on a new feature that will allow users to place voice calls. A leaked screenshot posted on The Daily What shows a 'Call' button alongside existing options for text-based chat and messaging. The function allegedly appeared for a brief moment, but quickly disappeared from the menu.

Skype and Facebook have already collaborated to merge VoIP functionality with the social network, however the existing features fall short of integrating voice calling directly into Facebook's web-based interface. Users can already view Facebook friends and post status or news feed updates from within the Skype client for Windows machines.

The announcement of Facebook features for Skype users ignited speculation that the companies would eventually bring VoIP calling to the social network, but such plans have yet to be officially confirmed. If the screenshot is authentic, it also remains unclear if Facebook is working with Skype or a separate system to enable VoIP calling. [via ReadWriteWeb]

By Electronista Staff