Skype 2.0 has hit the App Store, bringing with it one its most requested features fully baked in. For months, iPhone users have complained about the restriction of not being able to make outgoing Skype calls over a 3G connection, that has now changed.
If you connect to iTunes via your iPhone or your desktop and visit the Skype app’s page, you will notice a few extra upgrades/improvements:
- Call using your 3G connection. Skype-to-Skype calls on 3G are free until at least end of August 2010, after which there will be a small monthly fee (operator charges for data will still apply).
- Near CD-quality sound for Skype-to-Skype calls using wideband audio (SILK codec) on iPhone 3GS and 2nd generation iPod touch.
- Enhanced call quality indicator.
- Improved start-up time.
- Fast access to the dial pad from iPhone home screen.
That’s right, you have until the end of August to make all the 3G calls you can, although when the app enables its paid option you will still be able to make 3G calls by way of third-party applications like Fring and Nimbuzz.
Some users have noted that Skype 2.0 will not function on a jailbroken handset (Skype had previously warned users that the app wasn’t supported on a jailbroken device) although it works well on my iPhone. If you have problems using Skype 2.0 you might be limited to the above mentioned apps anyway.
What do you think of Skype’s decision to charge for Skype 2.0? Leave your thoughts in the comments.
Personally, I think it is okay for them to charge. And I’d be willing to pay since it is a feature I would want that much. Just think, you could end your $40+ a month voice plan with AT&T.
That aside, I did try a test call last night and there was a 4-6 second delay between me and the other person on the phone. Definitely not something I would buy into just yet. My connection was fine but I think my iPhone 3G’s processor couldn’t keep up. My network connection was strong so I’m not sure what happened. Fix the delay, though, and I would be willing to fork over some money.
I disagree with you Aaron, because here in the Netherlands you are stuck with TMobile if you want to use the iPhone to its full potential. I am already paying them a boatload each month, and I am not willing to pay more for this.
When I use my ‘fixed’ line at home I don’t have to pay extra. I just pay for the internet access. That exactly how it should be in my mobile, as I already pay for access each month.
This has ‘deal’ written all over it, and it is just another example of incumbent (phone) companies not able to adapt to change the internet and its possibilities are imposing on them. Their business models are simply becoming obsolete, and they need to adapt.
Fortunatly there are alternative VoIP Apps available without extra charge.
The limitation seem to just be in the iPhone App. I am using an iPhone 3G and the voice quality with the app is compared to a skype client running on a PC much worse.
The easies way to use skype via 3G is by using a netbook.
Personally, I think it is good for them to load. And I would be willing to pay because it is something I like very much. Just think, you may terminate your $ 40 + a voice plan with AT&T.
I have been using Skype over 3G for a year already! If you have a jailbroken iPhone, you would already have the ability to do this and without any “extra” fees.
As someone else already said, there are alternative VoIP apps that don’t require an extra “subscription” charge. I’d steer clear of this.
On their blog they wrote its free till the end of 2010 not August : http://blogs.skype.com/en/
Regards,
Aleks
It’s not OK to change the basic business promise of Skype. i.e. “Skype to Skype calls are free”. This would have to be one of the worst business decisions I’ve seen for a while. Make loyal customers wait and wait for a feature that they said was ready to go months ago, and when it’s finally available, drop the news that they will start to charge for something that has always been free (but only on iPhone).. Don’t they see they having Skype in my hand (iPhone) will mean that I will make a LOT of Skype Out calls, and THAT’S where they get the money – not from some half baked “small fee” that we don’t even know the value of yet. The marketing and business management team at Skype needs a kick!
Make loyal customers wait and wait for a feature that they said was ready to go months ago, and when it’s finally available, drop the news that they will start to charge for something that has always been free.
It is just another example of incumbent (phone) companies not able to adapt to change the internet and its possibilities are imposing on them. Their business models are simply becoming obsolete, and they need to adapt.
I think it is good for them to load. And I would be willing to pay because it is something I like very much.
Skype’s supposed promise to us:
ALL Skype-to-Skype calls are free, forever.
I think users should be outraged at the fact that you will be paying to use Skype over 3G OVER AND ABOVE your payment for the 3G connection itself. Thanks for seeing the light re: 3G calling charges. Now, how about that video calling