Qik for iPhone gets cross-platform video chat, messaging
updated 11:35 am EDT, Tue March 15, 2011
Qik Video Connect brings its video chat to iPhone
Qik on Tuesday brought its iPhone video app up to speed with the impending launch of Qik Video Connect. The app brings the two-way video chat that had previously only been an option with Android and lets users of either platform talk to each other. Live sharing has also been improved: a live stream can go up on Facebook or Twitter to watch from the social feed instead of having to go to Qik's own page.
Video messages are now present and give broadcasters the option of a pre-recorded clip for social networks or through mail. A social video feed makes it easier to track either when streaming starts or a finished clip is up.
A free version of Video Connect provides standard definition video and raw uploads. Qik is hoping to drive users to a $3 Plus version that adds HD video uploading from iPhone 4 and fourth-generation iPod touch owners, on-device video editing and real-time effects for any live chat or stream.
The apps should be available later today and need at least iOS 4 along with a camera-equipped device.
Qik's addition marks an uncommon reversal of the situation with its new parent company Skype. The larger firm had introduced video chat to iPhones first, but Qik started on Android and even today is still frequently preloaded on Android 2.x devices without any official chat app from Google.
