More devices set to Skype

ALL ANDROID phones will be able to make free 3G voice calls through Skype by the end of the year, Internet communications company Skype announced at CommunicAsia on Tuesday.

Skype is a peer-to-peer software that allows users to make video and voice calls, send instant messages and share files.

Previously, only the Apple iPhone and selected models of Android, Symbian and BlackBerry phones have this capability. Three Sony Ericsson Symbian^1 smartphones — the Satio, Vivaz and Vivaz Pro — joined the list this week. However, two-way Skype video calls through 3G will remain exclusive to the Nokia Maemobased N900 handset for now.

Skype’s general manager (Mobile) Russ Shaw said that Skype is working with handset makers and telcos to ensure smooth 3G video-calling experience before this functionality is rolled out to other devices, such as the iPhone 4.

“We would love to be part of Face- Time,” said Mr Shaw, referring to the video-call function of iPhone 4.

“As Apple has said, it will initially let iPhone 4 users call each other on WiFi ...Hopefully, we can work with Apple to leverage Skype’s user base.”

Starting next Monday, Panasonic Viera Cast-enabled TV owners will also be able to make free Skype voice and video calls over WiFi using a Panasonic USB communication camera (price unavailable). Skype-enabled LG and Samsung HD TVs are slated to come later this year.

Sim Cheng Kai

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