Skype - The Big Blog - Skype for iPhone: Update for iOS 4 coming soon

marcovanrijn1974 commented Monday, Jun 21

Great that there is a new version for the iPhone4.
But please make an update for Android. Its really strange that we cannot call skype-skype on the Android Skype app. People are asking for it for 9 months and there is no reply from Skype.

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

How soon. It was unfortunate that Mr. Jobs showed it working back in March and now you are not ready.You were showcased one of very few apps. You really should have been ready to shine.

jozsefhor commented Monday, Jun 21

Last time Skype said "soon," it was when they talked about the 3G version of the Skype iPhone app, which came out three months after the "soon" press release. So I'm not banking on getting the iOS-aware Skype app before late August. Question is, which year.

afrocreep commented Monday, Jun 21

So predictable, I was about to ask on twitter if skype was going to be ready or not this time around. You guys beat me to it by flat out saying you once again cannot deliver on time. Hopefully this doesn't take as long as calling over 3G did and you don't get caught in another lie to the public.

BTW IOS 4 comes out today. A lot of people have had it for a week now too. You have had it even longer than the public.

Now if you were too busy working on the Android app that is coming out sometime in the next decade all is forgiven.

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

Like I said before. If I were apple I would never showcase you again. When you have had 2-3 months to prepare

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

maybe icall or another voip will be ready sooner and I will switch.

Peter Parkes commented Monday, Jun 21

@afrocreep @hypnosmd as the post above says, we have an app which we’re testing internally. We just don’t want to release it to the public until we’ve had an opportunity to put it through our full testing cycle on the final version of iOS 4, which will be released today. Simple as that

rickievz commented Monday, Jun 21

Skype Rocks!!! Looking forward to the next update with iOS. Keep up the great job!!!

davidgbrookes commented Monday, Jun 21

Skype iOS 4 coming soon! Well the iPhone 5 will be here in about 2 years. Which will arrive first, you "soon"update or the iPhone 5?

kaifaire commented Monday, Jun 21

Wow, people sure develop a sense of entitlement over a free app that provides an awesome free service!

While running Skype in the background will be awesome, I'm a little more eager to see video chat come to the iPhone, especially for those of us not getting an iPhone 4 quite yet. Can't we lowly 3GSers get one-way video?

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

Well it is not free exactly. Look at the web site. Also I am just stating that when you are top billing at a mac event and show a product working. It should work on day one when ios4 is available. It is hard for me to believe that a final version is not available to app developers before release to the public. Not a question of entitlement since I pay for Skype service.

websyndicate commented Monday, Jun 21

I pay for skype minutes so I do expect a good iPhone app and it be ready but they are always i don't know 6 months behind even with a working demo. I have lost faith in skype and an not going to buy more into them. I'm sure iPhone app 4.0 ready will appear close to ios 5. Skype you suck.
Paying customer

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

Mr.Parkes, I am not trying to put skype on the defensive. However I was responding to 2 emails on friday and sat that stated by your personal that you would not be ready. So maybe have chat or telephone support to avoid this type of correspondence. Thanks

wallace.matthew.r commented Monday, Jun 21

First of all I don't mean to say that you should allow skype free license to delay forever but a few days to test the final iOS4 release is not unreasonable. The currently available release is called the GM (golden master) release and not strictly 'iOS4' for a reason. They had to push something semifinal for developers to play with that would contain all the major features. That doesn't mean there aren't still bugs that apple's developers are tracking down. If you have ever taken a beggining programming class you know that fixing one error can have a domino effect of throwing off later code. In the same way a bug fixed it the is could make a 3rd party program behave eradically.

Since iOS is distributed electronically and not on physical media the chances of a major discrepancy between the rtm and the final release are small but skype deserves the riht to double check. No professional developer (with some exceptions like networked stress testing) tests by releasing to the general public.

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

I understand it can be a complex process. However They should refrain from letting a major demo in march be seen by millions of people with out explanation or comment so people not as knowledgeable as you understand the restraints of this process. The only reason I bring this up is skype's tract record for not following through in a timely manner on issues like this one.

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

Let me add other developers already have ios4 versions out ie just saw Pandora is ios4 ready.

jaredpjones commented Monday, Jun 21

This message was full of crap...

Skype you are the king of releasing buggy versions of your software... Not only for linux but for Windows featuring your new 5 way video calling. Not to mention the fact that iOS4 was in GM for 2 weeks... You really cannot tell me that you guys couldn't of used the last 6Months since beta1 then the last 2 weeks to do all your final testing in GoldMaster. This makes no logical sense what so ever.

For crying out loud, applications like guitar hero aired at version "0.1.0" meaning its a definite beta version of the software. You cannot tell me that you guys could not put some kind of beta version out there... As far as I am concerned I'd rather have a Skype application that can do multitasking that crashes frequently then the current Skype app that drains my battery life because the screen has to stay on like 24/7 in order to stay in the call making your wifi and screen drain all the power out of your device.... Trust me you guys have no excuse with all the platforms you support. I am a paid customer of Skype and I program in ObjectiveC for the iPhone and trust me... This is an utter disappointment.

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

ok ios4 is out hopefully we see ios4 compatible skype

jaredpjones commented Monday, Jun 21

"Users report that the iOS 4 build number (8A293) is the same as that released to developers as the Golden Master Candidate earlier this month."

OH so how do you answer this question then Skype? Same build number.... :'(

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

thanks for the above comment I am glad to see a programer debunk the above statements.How long did we ask for push and nothing.Everybody let apple know that they are not ready. I am sure Steve Jobs having egg on his face with ATT ie MMS does relish this happening again.

carlosiah commented Monday, Jun 21

OMG!! Just lets see how "soon" Skype will be ready for the iOS4... I just hope we dont ahve to wait 3 months like the last time!
Maybe Google Voice might be available before!

davidyyz commented Monday, Jun 21

So what app did David Ponsford demo at the Apple Conference?
It multitasked on iOS 4.0
Not iPhone Skype 2.0.0 i am using on the Iphone 3Gs with iOS 4.0

davidyyz commented Monday, Jun 21

So, I reread all the above posts.

I can only conclude that Skype and David Ponsford misrepresented Skype multitasking at the Apple developer conference. Would have been nice if he told the truth (which means full disclosure that it is NEW beta software NOT available to the Public)

Don't any of you guys have mothers? Mine would whack me for that misrepresentation.

davidyyz commented Monday, Jun 21

The reason I am pi$$%$ is that I just wasted a half hour trying to figure out why Skype 2.0.0 won't multitask.

Thanks for wasting my time

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

Have not heard from skype on this blog lately I guess they are cleaning the egg off their face might want to hand a towel to Steve Jobs while your at it.

davidyyz commented Monday, Jun 21

I just watched the Apple Developers conference video again. Both the Apple guy and David Ponsford said may times "now you can....".. not once did they say we were looking at a beta.

When Skype says "coming soon" they mean in geological time.
Skype and Apple should be ashamed - but I bet they are not.

How about another comment from Peter Parkes ?

martin.koistinen commented Monday, Jun 21

Come on everyone. OBVIOUSLY, they discovered some last minute issue that required time to sort out. Clearly Skype would have loved to be the first app everyone used on their shiny new iOS4 iDevice, but, whatever the issue is, it must've been a big one. If they had released it and everyone discovered the bug, this forum would have been even fuller with people bashing them for quality control.

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

honestly If wasn't for Skype's track record for keeping up with the rest of the digital world and a world class presentation at the april event I would not be commenting on this blog. Do not defend false claims and a crappy track record.

jaredpjones commented Monday, Jun 21

YOU KNOW WHAT REALLY SUCKS...

That fact that if they did release the app this week they still would have to wait for about 5-7 days for apple to approve the update... -.-

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

Still does not explain the fact that there is no push notification. while others icall have had theirs for months. Really you can't have VM or phone call push notification. No excuse

laurie-morgan commented Monday, Jun 21

As a PAYING Skype customer, I'm very disappointed. Time to move to a different VoIP alternative.

mdfmuse commented Monday, Jun 21

Thanks for the update Peter. Question: will the iOS4 features work with the 3G iPad when Apple releases iOS4 for iPad in the Fall? I think tapping into the iPad market would be a great move, as this would in effect bring phone capabilities to the iPad (which has no phone). I also have a question about using Skype-In via 3G with my iPad. Will this work? In other words if I sign up for Skype In, will people be able to reach me at my iPad by calling my Skype In phone number, even when my iPad is using a 3G connection? Thanks.

mdfmuse commented Monday, Jun 21

Thanks for the update Peter. Question: will the iOS4 features work with the 3G iPad when Apple releases iOS4 for iPad in the Fall? I think tapping into the iPad market would be a great move, as this would in effect bring phone capabilities to the iPad (which has no phone). I also have a question about using Skype-In via 3G with my iPad. Will this work? In other words if I sign up for Skype In, will people be able to reach me at my iPad by calling my Skype In phone number, even when my iPad is using a 3G connection? Thanks.

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

I hope you get your iPad issues resolved, but I wouldn't count on it

costanzo98031 commented Monday, Jun 21

David Ponsford should be fired! Seriously, he demonstrates poor communication and leadership skills. A company like Skype, it's critical that their developers are on top of their game. Not releasing an update on launch when iOS4 rolls out demonstrates they were a sleep at the wheel. There should be NO reason for Skype to delay on an iOS4 release. They demo'd it at the developer conference and been running it on GM version for sometime.

The problem I see is they lack leadership in their mobile project management. There's a lot of companies releasing updates. Some have millions of downloads too.

My guess is we will see months past before this upgrade makes it to iTunes and while customers write asking for updates, they will just go ignored.

davidyyz commented Monday, Jun 21

Judging from David Ponsford's British accent I heard on the WWDC presentation I suppose we don't have the iOS 4.0 because he was sailing with Tony this weekend

And I thought eBay was a bad influence.

Hey Skype guys, time to act like grownups.

Peter Parkes commented Monday, Jun 21

@davidyyz there’s a difference between a demo and a publicly available product.

@mdfmuse we haven’t made any specific announcements about the iPad yet. You online number should work just fine over 3G, yes

@costanzo98031 as the post above explains, until we’ve tested it on the public version of iOS 4 and on the iPhone 4 hardware, we won’t release it. Simple as that.

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 21

I do not believe it for a second. this crap. how can other companies accomplish this ie pandora also shown to work in april

kiran.kinara commented Monday, Jun 21

Mr. Peter Parkes, shame on u guys !!

We all know that you are make some lame excuses to cover up the inefficiency with in ur team.

kiran.kinara commented Monday, Jun 21

one more thing, by all these actions u have played a spoil sport on iOS 4 release. I'm sure apple would make a note of it. Multi tasking VOip was something which we all looked forward on ios4 release and we r shocked to hear that u haven't got enough test window !! I'm wondering how Mr.Jobs got confidence in u..!? Now we dont even trust Mr Jobs, as he has demonstrated something very fictitious !

hypnosmd commented Tuesday, Jun 22

yeah it is as simple as that -simple minded

hypnosmd commented Tuesday, Jun 22

oh by the way simpe as that oh were have I heard that before, it was Mr Ponsford in April when he demo'd Skype on ios4.Jesus how ironic

jaredpjones commented Tuesday, Jun 22

PETER

THE GM IS THE SAME BUILD AS THIS CURRENT VERSION YOU HAD 6 MONTHS AND 2 WEEKS OF GM TO GET THE THING FIXED.... geez

mrmikeanderson commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Coming Soon?? How about a delivery date?

jaredpjones commented Tuesday, Jun 22

SO WHY IN THE WORLD are you lieing to people by saying that you wanted to test it on the public iOS when its the same flippin thing that was out 2 weeks ago. Your just giving a lame excuse. Your either being told what to say or you know nothing about the iPhone.

marieeg115 commented Tuesday, Jun 22

This is great and all, but what about a skype app for android phones not on Verizon? What's the status with that? I have a HTC Hero, and would love to be able to use skype to talk to my brother who lives in Mexico, without lugging around my laptop.

davidyyz commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Peter,

You said "there’s a difference between a demo and a publicly available product"
That was a remarkably condescending and insulting statement.
But I guess there is not much else you can say is there.

At WWDC when Ponsford did his demo he said "until today...." so doesn't that mean today?

Ponsford also said "...the implementation you just saw was really simple to implement, just a few lines of code..." Well I guess he got that wrong?

mike.zara commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Mr. Parkes, your last comment gives a significantly different reason for the delay than does your original post. The latter says merely that "we need to carry out some additional tests with the final version of iOS 4." The former suggests that you will not even begin until the June 24 release of *the iPhone 4 hardware* a significant part of whatever work remains.

I'm a paying customer. I'm extremely annoyed because I bought your services precisely because of the multitasking--and I bought your services now rather than later because your demo in March stated that you had the multitasking worked out and thereby implied that you would have an upgrade available without problem *for iOS4* and at or near launch of *iOS4*. It's outrageous that you are delaying even a minute to test on unreleased hardware, when you demoed on existing hardware.

chase18303 commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Really guys.... everyone knows you've dropped the ball here. Again.

Once Google Voice comes out of beta and is merged with their Talk app... you're finished.

georgios_paschos commented Tuesday, Jun 22

As a skype user since 2002 I would be very disappointed if skype will delay the iOS4 compatible version. I think that the modern mobile platforms (iOS, android etc) provide a great opportunity for skype to get to an even greater audience. I myself spent much more of my skype credit on my iPhone than I used to spent or currently spend on the computer. This is a rapidly growing field with apple having their own implementations on Voip (iChat which was the first to provide video conference) and now facetime. Skype should try to capitalize on their lead at the moment and to do so I would expect a much more responsible attitude towards updating their products. I don't know what the agreement skype made with verizon earlier this year means to all this, but I would expect skype to make their moves more obvious to their customers. If skype is trying to hurt apple by delaying the updates to their app for the iPhone I'm afraid they hurt themselves instead. People including me (a long skype user who likes skype as an application) are angry on skype not on apple. If you really want to go against apple you should announce that you stop making apps for their products. If you don't do that be on top of your update times otherwise people will start to move to other software

wallace.matthew.r commented Tuesday, Jun 22

I must say, waiting to test on the iPhone 4 hardware is a little OCD. If you're satisfied with the performance on the 3GS with iOS4 then release it and just don't list it as iPhone 4 compatible until you've had time to test it on the device.

And to everyone using the demo as misdirection . . . please . . .

The demo is literally an advertisement. It doesn't have to be a fully functional build. Every step of the way, every feature they plan to show you is scripted and that script leaves out features that are not complete and often times sidesteps known bugs by sidestepping the conditions that spawn them. As for the "now you can . . ." comments. Not to say they couldn't be a little more aware of their audience and choose their wording better but these guys have been working on this for a while and they get used to talking about it in present tense because for them it is present tense.

greenretrodog commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Running Skype in the background of my iPhone would be amazing.

I could stay in touch with all of my buddies from around the world. I'd really, really, like that.

Looking forward to the update popping up in my App store I really, really am.

jeyadev commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Peter,
Here's my understanding, based on the original post & your replies to comments here.
1. The demo in March is not a final production version.
2. You're waiting for the iPhone4 to launch, so you can test a feature that you demo-ed in March on the iPhone 3G [S].
3. Its possible that the features that were demo-ed as running on the iPhone 3G[S] may not be made available to iPhone 3G owners.

Please feel free to correct me...

tomeitel commented Tuesday, Jun 22

there is a major concern here that has yet to be resolved in writing from skype, push notifications are nowhere to be seen in their app yet push has been avail for almost a year!!!! how does pandora get day one release and not skype! its very disapointing i expect more from such an incredible company.

mattjames666 commented Tuesday, Jun 22

I spend hundreds of dollars a year using skype, and having a number attached.
Im extremely disappointed that you didnt have a skype update that is compatible with iphone ios 4.0 today! Id rather you release an update that can run in the backround with bugs, than to make us all wait. You can always release another update to fix the bugs later!

Cmonnnn, give your customers what they want...... now rather than months later!!
Matt

texmaxxx commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Hi Skype!
You can make a few million people and me happy be giving us an ANDROID version!
Any statement?

ncalliari commented Tuesday, Jun 22

I can't wait for Google Voice to wipe the floor with Skype. Skype's development teams, both desktop and mobile, have been incompetent for 2 years now. Their desktop app is a horrible mess of a UI, and they can't seem to keep to a clear development deadline when releasing for mobile. iOS 4 betas and GM have been out for weeks. Skype, start treating your customers with respect, they are your lifeblood, and change your development team leaders, they are incompetent.

rt____ commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Annoying. The note talks how exciting new features will be. Skype does not even run in the old version under iOS 4. So after the update skype's gone. Guys, that's simply poor.

hypnosmd commented Tuesday, Jun 22

whether it is skype or bloggers making excuses for skype. It does explain how companies like pandora can be ready to go. Again look at skype's track record and we should not be shocked. by the way where the he'll is push notification 1year and counting. Get the picture.

mrsimmouk commented Tuesday, Jun 22

IOS4 GM was made available to developers over a month ago, the reasoning for this from Apple is "so developers have chance to get their application ready prior to the public launch of IOS 4". The same scenario applies to the Iphone 4 hardware.

So essentially a large multinational company like Skype not having the resources to test thoroughly in the same time frame as several hundred other companies which have managed to release updates before time is nothing short of an embarrassment and a joke.

Basing my view of Skype on your lack of ability to deliver high quality products and services against your promises, it is a disgrace.

Peter Parkes commented Tuesday, Jun 22

@rt____ the existing app should work just fine – you may see a warning message the first time you run it, but you can dismiss it and carry on as normal.

hypnosmd commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Mr Parkes good to see you are back any word on the update. I also talked and emailed some people at apple and they were quite taken a back to you companies lack of readiness.

ssciboz commented Tuesday, Jun 22

yes, like always we will wait two years
skype hates apple

mphdmh commented Tuesday, Jun 22

What a lot of wingers. I am grateful to Skype. I have never had a problem and more importantly, it has allowed me to keep in contact with my son whilst in these troubled times. A luxury I could not afford if it were not for Skype.

mphdmh commented Tuesday, Jun 22

btw Skype runs perfectly well on ios 4. Just ignore the first warning

a1astudio commented Tuesday, Jun 22

You had the full version of ios4 for a considerable amount of time. It wasn't a "demo". The GM version which is the exact version out now was given to developers. Both my wife and I have 3gs phones and don't intend to get a 4 but we have been signed up with you guys awaiting the exciting multitasking you would make available when the ios4 came out. You're simply a day late and a dollar short and no one can make any sense of your delays. I don't know the real reasons for your delays but you guys are just not honest. You could have released a version yesterday which would have simply allowed multitasking and then released another version which might do other things you're trying to do and currently "testing". What a disappointment and CAN'T YOU AT THE VERY MINIMUM PROVIDE A TIMETABLE or are you going to test it until the cows come home. Let us know so we can decide how we want to spend our money. ONE WEEK, TWO WEEKS, A MONTH, A YEAR...??? Thanks for nothing!!

hypnosmd commented Tuesday, Jun 22

skype works well on the computer however never has been a friend to the iPhone. So if you going to say you are ready to go ie April conf you better be ready to go. plenty of other. companies would have loved to be showcased in April. You do not rest on on your past accomplishments.

a1astudio commented Tuesday, Jun 22

mphdmh ... yes it does run fine in ios4 but it is not available if you try and run it in the background. As it is, it works as it did in OS 3.13 but there was an expectation based on what they said and demonstrated that they would have a workable multitasked Skype with the release of ios4 so you could keep Skype active in the background and for example play a game or put your iphone in standby and in each case receive a call on Skype. Yes, we are all thankful that we can call our loved ones using Skype but that is not the issue with the release of ios4. Skype is a VOIP and Apple specifically used them as an example of one of the improvements in the ios4. But Skype has not delivered timely. It would be a huge leap for those of us who want to be able to do things with Skype running in the background and receive calls on our Skype number without having to keep Skype as the only active program on our iphone in order to receive Skype calls. No one is saying that Skype won't work on ios4 but it is not working as we expected it should.

mh1ok222 commented Tuesday, Jun 22

You people are all wrong! (lol). First of all, not only am I disgusted that you didn't come out with a multi task update, iCall beat you to it. I guess Apple will think twice next time they want you in their presentations...

However, I think this is done on purpose because Skype's new best friend, Verizon, told them to. First they made you stop producing on Windows Mobile which was my fav platform. Next, you stop it on all non-Verizon blackberries. Now this. I'm pretty sure you got orders from Verizon (who probably wants to buy you) to not release on Apple's platform. Now, you're gonna wait until you test on the "iPhone 4 hardware." Really? That's the best excuse Verizon gave you to stall us? I am sure on June 24 or 25, they'll tell you tell everyone that "unfortunately, Skype does not work with iPhone 4's hardware" and you want to screw everyone over for just another couple of months. You are running under Verizon now, it's clearly visible. Good luck to everyone trying to get multi tasking on Skype anytime soon...

ariromano commented Tuesday, Jun 22

I don't understand why you don't want to release it before you've tested it with the public version of iOS4. The gold master was exactly the same as the publish version. That's why it was called the gold master.

hypnosmd commented Tuesday, Jun 22

unfortunately icall can not multitask as of today and their recent update. However I was not aware of a verizon skype subversive partnership. Watch out Skype Verizon sucks worse than you If that is possible.

manojkchoudhry commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Won't release without testing on the public version? What better way to test on public version than releasing it and sit back and wait for the feedback from all kinds of public version?

I think this has got more to do with "business dealings" than technology

hypnosmd commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Well people are getting their iphone 4 and hopefully one was sent to skype. I wonder what excuse we will get now. So let's see ios4 is out the public are getting the new iphone today and xmas is just around the corner.

davidyyz commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Peter,

On April 8th you posted (or boasted):

"Skype for iPhone will run in the background with iPhone OS 4"
"With iPhone OS 4, when you leave the Skype app, it’ll still be there in the background."

I have iOS 4 and Skype doesn't.

Peter, here is a simple equation:

Satisfaction = Performance - Expectation

Anyway, I should stop complaining; most of my calls are on Line2.

bmead33 commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Maybe they should put a picture of a actual iPhone 4 on the coming soon page, no?

I'm very disappointed this wasn't ready at launch. I understand the testing process, but for such a spotlighted app not to be ready for its worldwide cliental is frustrating to say the least. There is no doubt that Skype has squandered another opportunity to impress and prove that they can develop big on the world stage. They have only proven they can't, even with Apple's hype and backing.
Bummer.

trent.m.lewis commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Ok. I think people may need to woah back just a smidge. Sure it's not released yet, but read peter's first paragraph, they do say waiting for iPhone 4s to arrive on the desk, perhaps they are testing some iPhone 4 only features? Do i hear a camera?????????

hypnosmd commented Tuesday, Jun 22

you are understanding Trent. However their lame Tracy record speaks for itself . with regard to a camera great release it in the future. They were showcased by Apple if they can rise to the occasion someone else should.

rob.scurr commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Never say 'coming soon', people eat soon, go to the toilet soon, go to bed soon; days or weeks aren't soon, they're sometime off.

johnkoles commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Disappointing news that Skype does not run in the background in OS 4.0 !!!! I was so looking forward to getting iOS now back to waiting......

malaricos100 commented Tuesday, Jun 22

I updated my 3GS to iOS 4 yesterday, I had previously watched the Apple promo video where Skype show their iphone app running in the background whist using other apps. This prompted me to update my iphone software and naturally made me assume it would work once updated. Clearly it didn't and I've wasted a whole day trying to reinstall the software both on my PC and my iphone thinking it was a local issue. Skype could have put a message up (as quickly as they did to boast about the new multitasking functionality) to say sorry they were shit and hadn't actually sorted it out yet. This would have saved me a lot of time yesterday/today..

Which is the best alternative to Skype as I will be taking my cash elsewhere. Voipcheap seems to be good?

davidyyz commented Tuesday, Jun 22

malaricos100, I had a similar issue
Wasted time yesterday, and thought I was dumb
Until I figured out Skype lied on April 8 and at the WWDC

francisguidera commented Tuesday, Jun 22

I am seriously pi**ed. I have been waiting for the IOS4 update purely for multitasking, PURELY so I can use SKYPE for VOIP to the USA.

Skype, is obviously as amateur as it was when you first brought it out. And that is why many of my friends will probably never adopt SKYPE as a service they rely on.

Time for Apple to bring out their own VOIP service.

francisguidera commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Also want to know what vaible alternative there is to SKYPE. Setting up a FACEBOOK page to bash this rip off company tomorrow. Everyone needs to know, they LIE to consumers, and helped Apple mis-represent the 'wonders' of the new OS.

dich111 commented Tuesday, Jun 22

The only thing Skype has is video chat and international calling. It's call-in and voicemail are terribly overpriced, it's desktop software is slow and buggy, and it's international prices are more than it's competition. Gizmo 5 and Google voice can do much more than all of that. Once google finally combines them, no one will pay for skype anymore. Combine that with native video chat on the iPhone, Skype is done. Technically Skype could utilize the camera on the iPhone but we all know there will five or six companies that beat them to it. Unless Skype can broaden it's use, it will be a thing of the past.

hypnosmd commented Tuesday, Jun 22

anyone know of a voip that is ios4 ready and will work in the background

francisguidera commented Tuesday, Jun 22

Hmm... so my post with a link won't be posted?

a1astudio commented Wednesday, Jun 23

The bottom line in this entire fiasco by Skype is that I wouldn't have marked June 21 on my calendar if I knew that Skype would not be ready to run in the background after downloading ios4. I would not have tried to download ios4 at 9am if I knew that Skype wouldn't be running in the background. Sure, folders are nice, changing wallpapers are nice etc but my main reason for getting ios4 was running Skype in the background. At least Navigon was responsible in their efforts to multitask. Hurrah for Navigon! Skype = hype.

If Skype was a responsible company and had sent me an email a month or two ago letting me know that they would not be ready by ios4 launch day to multitask providing rational and understandable reasons, maybe, and I say "maybe" after their high profile presentation with Jobs, I would have understood. But the truth is, these guys are jerks. Guess what folks, after you download ios4 you are not going to be multitasking with Skype....we lied in front of god, Steve Jobs and all of you paying customers. Nope, no multitasking until we say so and we are not going to tell you when because we are also CLUELESS!!!!

cleanaer commented Wednesday, Jun 23

Skype works fine with iOS4. We need an upgrade to support multi-tasking.

This will mean we can receive calls when Skype is not the main application.

davidyyz commented Wednesday, Jun 23

Line2 says they will release an app on June 24 that is iOS 4 ready

rlberg4 commented Wednesday, Jun 23

Well, I think that everyone should take a moment and be grateful that the company is at least trying to ensure that the app they release is secure and easy to use. Skype provides an excellent service, and this absurd sense of entitlement needs to be curbed. I will say it since Mr. Parkes cannot - get over yourselves and consider how fortunate you are to be able to utilize this type of technology in whatever form. The improvements will come when the product is right.

rlberg4 commented Wednesday, Jun 23

Well, I think that everyone should take a moment and be grateful that the company is at least trying to ensure that the app they release is secure and easy to use. Skype provides an excellent service, and this absurd sense of entitlement needs to be curbed. I will say it since Mr. Parkes cannot - get over yourselves and consider how fortunate you are to be able to utilize this type of technology in whatever form. The improvements will come when the product is right.

tonyscarcia commented Wednesday, Jun 23

I love Skype!

ondacuantica commented Wednesday, Jun 23

A simple jailbreak then backgrounder install will get all your apps (including Skype) multitasking in no time. Works fine on the 3G and older 3Gs. That way you can give the Skype team a break from reading all this nastiness and let them get on with working to continue providing us with a FREE app to make FREE (mostly, for now) calls. Thank you Skype!

a1astudio commented Wednesday, Jun 23

C'mon you guys...I don't even know how to respond to some of this nonsense. Can't Skype just be honest and let their users know that they will not be releasing multitasking with the ios4 launch and a timetable when they expect this to be available.

I don't want jailbreak instructions...never used them... never will. I just want honesty from Skype... I am sick and tired pg complaining about their dishonesty and if they can't let us know when they are going to release their changes to use ios4 then they don't know who we are ))))

adamhollingworth commented Wednesday, Jun 23

My memory could be wrong but im sure i remember the Skype team at the WWDC talking about how easy it was to code the new app for ios4 skype with multitasking. I believe they even boasted about being able to do it in one morning! If it was them...hilarious! There are some dark forces working in the background me thinks. Back to signing in out, in out, shake it all about...cue the music....Rubbish!

taylorr123454321 commented Wednesday, Jun 23

Hay Skype
Will Skype work and be able to receive called and chats when the screen is locked on my iPod touch 2g 8gb
Or not with the app open
Or not at all
I have a iPod touch 2g 8gb

jusloh commented Wednesday, Jun 23

The Master (Confucius) said, 'Do not be desirous to have things done quickly; do not look at small advantages. Desire to have things done quickly prevents their being done thoroughly. Looking at small advantages prevents great affairs from being accomplished.'

ltuikov commented Wednesday, Jun 23

@Peter Parks

Thank you for finding the time to read and respond.

After seeing David Ponsford, head of iPhone software development at Skype, demoing a completely working solution on an iPhone 3GS running iOS 4 at the Apple iPhone OS 4 Event, on 8 April 2010 in Cupertino, CA, and Skype having had over 6 months to get their app well tested (as you've been saying you're doing), it's hard to believe that the hold-up is just "testing".

After all, David Ponsford did mention that the new capability was just a couple of extra system calls into the iOS 4.

I know it's completely unrealistic you'd tell us the unofficial, real reason why you're not releasing it yet...

Sure, if it worked, who'd make calls over their cellular plan? After all, all you need is either 3G or WiFi and Skype and you can make calls anywhere, anytime. You don't even need a phone cellular plan. An iPad becomes a phone, instantly (since it only has a 3G Data plan with AT&T, unlimited for $30/month).

Now, Skype does mention that you'll start charging for calls over 3G at the end of 2010. So you'll be charging us OVER and ON TOP of what the 3G carrier is charging us for the data plan, correct?

Anyway, the hold-up (and new-to-be charges) is beyond ridiculous. You're slowly becoming a telco...

I hope (in vain possibly) Skype will not become the very big (and greedy?) telco it came out to deliver us from.

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jun 23

Confucius also says-
The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions

jusloh commented Wednesday, Jun 23

Confucius also says-
The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions

In this case, you don't seem to be walking the talk yourself.

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jun 23

I am not the one that stood on stage with steve jobs and said it is just that simple. by the way my point with quoting Confucius is there is obvious difference in opinion. I guess I need to point out the obvious.

jon.j.wan commented Wednesday, Jun 23

@Peter Parkes

Shouldn't standard test cases be written up and just a walk in the park for someone to execute? (NB: Where standard implies the software engineering use cases for the program, and random stupid user test cases)

What stage of testing are they at?

a1astudio commented Wednesday, Jun 23

Looking on the positive side, at least Apple delivered on time. They say what they mean and mean what they say even though it is all under the cover of darkness. For the Skype apologists on this blog or should I say "Skype employees", you probably don't care about multitasking, it's irrelevant to you. But, why are you apologizing for bad behavior? Let's face it, upset Skype patrons are currently searching the itunes apps for something to replace Skype since they are so frustrated that they were led down the primrose path by Skype. The only way Skype will be able to assuage these patrons is to blow their socks off with some out of this world changes. Then, I would be the first to say, "Thanks, it was worth the extra wait". At this point, there is mounting disappointment.

jusloh commented Wednesday, Jun 23

@hypnosmd

I'm a paying customer too and can see what is happening The obvious point is very explicit and I'm sure everyone
(Inside and outside) has seen comments made here.

Market forces will determine the fate of the product and people involved with the product (again inside and.outside Skype). I, being a paying customer, will go for a product or service that I deem good in all features that I look for.

Customers are never loyal to anyone or company but its products or services.

This is my parting point. please pardon me, from Confucius again:-
The Master said, 'Faithfully admonish your friend, and skillfully lead him on. If you find him impracticable, stop. Do not disgrace yourself.'

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jun 23

Your a last word type of guy.So here is mine, if you do not hold people to their word they assume you are content.

dizzy13 commented Wednesday, Jun 23

http://whenwillskypereleaseios4app.com/

a1astudio commented Wednesday, Jun 23

I don't know if this is my last word but the above link "whenwillskypereleaseios4app.com" is a portend to our continued frustration. It took them 115 days to release the 3g app once it was announced that the 3g app was "coming soon". Oh well....track record doesn't look good... will it take 4 months again for them to release this since they announced, "coming soon" on their website. For the apologetics it doesn't matter because they are in la la land.

In any case, hopefully they will receive their new iphone 4 tomorrow so they can begin their "final testing" and get us the app pronto.

christina_thomas111 commented Wednesday, Jun 23

I'm so glad this blog is here, I've been scratching my head for 2 days trying to figure out what I did wrong in my iOS4 update and why Skype wasn't working with multitasking!

As others have already mentioned, Skype was showcased and several online sites show screenshots of Skype working in multitasking, I took it as a given that it would be up and running with the release of iOS4.

Looking forward to having the update!

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jun 23

possible new info for some of us. Apparently, Skype may be waiting to integrate face time or their version before they release a new version. This will take forever. If Mr. Parkes is out there could you please release multitasking and have the next version include video. 2 updates 1st multitasking then video.

juice_mx commented Wednesday, Jun 23

it is fully understandable how busy you guys are (working on skype) but the bottom line is: my APP store doesnt say 1 update availabe: SKYPE. other than that great job.

juice_mx commented Wednesday, Jun 23

and you DID have 3 months.

gordbusse commented Wednesday, Jun 23

How many people here think that Skype for iOS4 with "multi-tasking" is "vaporware" and that the demo at WWDC was fabricated? I mean if it wasn't why have they not released it yet as so many many many many many other developers have?

a1astudio commented Wednesday, Jun 23

Rather than "coming soon" they should have just titled this page, "We will release it when we are good and ready and not a second earlier" unless they are willing to provide their definition of "soon". Or "Coming Before Christmas (maybe 2010 but at least 2011)"

brentisaacksinc commented Wednesday, Jun 23

Please hurry received my iPhone 4 today...I need this update!

fantasticrice commented Wednesday, Jun 23

Will we be able to use a bluetooth headset with it yet, or is that not one of the new APIs that Apple has made available?

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jun 23

Thank God someone received their IPhone, now they can release the update.

aubron2 commented Thursday, Jun 24

iPhone 4. Any plans for video skype?

aubron2 commented Thursday, Jun 24

Also, my standards aren't high at all, honestly. I trust a company that makes mistakes over and over again but updates twice a week then one that makes a product, and bug tests it to the point that I'm past the point where I'd even want it anymore. Like the iPad app.

foxwrenn commented Thursday, Jun 24

It will be here... People calm down. It still works on iOS 4 and is the same as before. Honestly if they just released it whenever they felt it was ready...without going through the testing cycle. It might be faulty, and then you might have something to complain about... Let it come when it's ready. =)

@Peter Parkes to you get tired of answering to hate mail? lol

greenretrodog commented Thursday, Jun 24

Hey Skype people,

Couldn't wait any longer, kept missing calls from my buddies. Just downgraded from iOS4 to 3.1.3, jailbroke the iPhone.. And oh look, multitasking with Skype.

Dammit guys.

mark.degnan92 commented Thursday, Jun 24

I'm leaving to America tonight and need this update!

hypnosmd commented Thursday, Jun 24

No word on any progress. Skype the great communicator

mh1ok222 commented Thursday, Jun 24

lol, it would be so f***ed up if Skype ordered the White iPhone 4...because those are delayed until the 29th according to Apple. Please tell me you guys ordered the black iPhone 4 and are testing it right now.

daniel.s.maloney commented Friday, Jun 25

Just checked app store today, 10 of my apps had iOS4 updates, pandora, ambience, brushes, even omifocus. But the one app demoed to have iOS4 support still hasn't been updated. This is starting to look f-ing embarrassing you guys. Release the damn update!

dan_turner commented Friday, Jun 25

To some of the folk on here.
You need to realise Skype owe you NOTHING.

The whole entitlement thing is getting way out of control.

You want a bug riddled update that's not fully tested? Fine. But I am guessing you would be the first people to moan about it.

The fact you can't fully utilise Skype on iOS4 is not the end of the world.
It's not going to hurt you or mess your life up, really.

There are people out there who can barely put food on their plates.

hypnosmd commented Friday, Jun 25

It is not an entitlement when you pay for the service. Secondly, we entitled to a progress report or an update. Many people signed up for Skype payed service based on the direct comments made in April. So this is just holding them to their word.

hypnosmd commented Friday, Jun 25

Also nobody is putting on the same level as a starving person. Do not be absurd.

a1astudio commented Friday, Jun 25

If the measuring stick for complaining about this was "people...who can barely put food on their plates" no one would ever raise concerns about anything. But that isn't the issue at all and "food on plates" nor "entitlement" are relevant to this discussion.. The issue is whether Skype delivered on what they stated. They raised expectations and quite frankly the reason that Apple put them out there front and center at the Apple Conference was because Skype's voip was at the heart of their multitasking. Apple wanted ooohs and aaahs for their ios4 and they used Skype to get some of it. So we were all waiting for June 21 to have ios4 and Skype multitasked and it didn't happen. What is being expressed on this blog is disappointment with Skype and the expectations they created and didn't deliver. This is not something earth shaking. If I want to complain about the oil spill or poverty I certainly wouldn't do it here. This is about DISAPPOINTMENT with Skype and their failure to deliver in a timely manner and DISAPPOINTMENT in their level of communicating how long we have to wait since they failed to deliver on time....can they define "testing", "coming soon"....

jjgoodtimes26 commented Friday, Jun 25

Skype is a Flat out dissapointment!!!

woody.m.collins commented Friday, Jun 25

I was hoping that Skype came out with a mobile video version. iPhone made it out first. Maybe the Skype engineers will make it better.

paulckuehn commented Friday, Jun 25

I have to say this is pretty ridiculous. March to June 24 is pretty much 3 months, and Steve Jobs had a working version in his i4.0. What gives skype? This was the only real reason to upgrade other than the "wonder feature" of folders.

georgios_paschos commented Friday, Jun 25

Truphone updated today for iOS4 and works over 3G. My guess is Fring is next to come, most probably before Skype

rafaelchaves79 commented Friday, Jun 25

I must say I have always loved Skype and I have greatly benefited from its service. Having said that, I believe that there's something terribly wrong with the way Skype is working with regards to the Iphone. First was the whole 3G calls "coming soon" debacle. Now it looks like we're heading the same way with the "Multitasking coming soon" story. While I believe you're entitled to do anything you want (it's your software after all), I do think you guys cross the line when you treat your customers like fools. I can't help but think you're holding the multitasking update until you can start charging for calls over 3g. Being able to multitask and make calls over 3g was the main reason I had a jailbroken Iphone. I gladly updated to the new ios4 thinking I would have the same experience as the one I witnessed at WWDC. I first thought I was doing something wrong, bacause Skype kept disconnecting when I switched to another app, then I realized I had been screwed over. It was the same sinking feeling I felt when I tried making my first Skype phone call using the Iphone (oonly to find out I needed a WI fi connection). Quite frankly, I'm sick of being treated like trash by Apple, AT&T and now Skype. Welcome to the club. I can't wait until my 2 year contract expires.

hypnosmd commented Friday, Jun 25

First off Truphone does not accept incoming calls ie outside landlines other cell phones. They said they will be offering phone #'s to buy like you have with Skype. So while I applaud them for having multitasking it is incomplete. Icall and skype have outbound and inbound but no multitasking. Someone needs to put this all together.

trent.m.lewis commented Friday, Jun 25

Oi pete,

Most of us don't care that skype were not ready straight away, and personally I would not care if it took another week or two to come out. But i think I speak for everyone here when I say that skype does have an awesome product but we just want to know when the hell we can use it! You know how when you have a deadline to meet, and you might not quiet make it, if you explain to people why it wasn't met, any normal person would be understanding. The gripe people have at the moment is how vague the information we have has been.

Ta,

Trent

aravindkc commented Saturday, Jun 26

I am sure who ever gave bad comments about skype I'm here has no clue about software development lifecycle. The demo is just a glimpse of what cool features they have on the way. I am sure they are working their asses off to meet the deadlines, sometimes I'm order to get a great product you need to be patient.

bammasta commented Saturday, Jun 26

Yeah like the guy above me said are none of you commentors familiar with beta/demo software. I mean seriously. Plus just because a new version of software out doesn't mean a company drops what it's doing to get it out on that day. They will continue working toward it but skype never set a public release date meaning they didn't miss this theoretical deadline everyone is talking about. Give them time I'd say about two weeks is somehwat acceptable but until they miss a deadline that they publicly reworded and the miss it you shouldn't complain.
Apparently most people here don't understand technology or business... Just because you see the technology doesn't mean it's anywhere near ready.

bammasta commented Saturday, Jun 26

My apologies: not most people here but those posting thoughtless/bad comments.

saleh.26 commented Saturday, Jun 26

Com'n people, they, at least, said "Coming soon". It's not like the iPad version when they said: "The iPhone version should work fine.. screw you.. deal with it"

Poor mac version, no iPad version at all with no plan to do in the near future, really slow developing and late updates to the iPhone version. You're just as lazy as Adobe. Steve Jobs is so gonna be pissed off.

- Just in case you don't know, Skype makes more than $190 million.. but still can't make an iPad version, or even include push notification to the iPhone version

hypnosmd commented Saturday, Jun 26

It is Skype's track record,lack of communication and being showcased at Mac conference in April that is creating criticism. You do not have to work in a particular industry to understand this concept.

saleh.26 commented Saturday, Jun 26

"It was really simple to implement, just a dozen lines of code" - guess who said that?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-X8evpgu4Nc

trent.m.lewis commented Saturday, Jun 26

'the notification you just saw was really easy to implement' was what was actually said, referring to the push notification, not multitasking. That has been misquoted several times in these comments. Thanks

hypnosmd commented Saturday, Jun 26

regardless of the quote,they still showcased a product that multitasked. We can argue all day about details. However, It is their lack of communication and integrity that is in question

tuesday.pendergast.graham commented Saturday, Jun 26

To Whom It May Concern:

I am a Sprint PCS customer and I would love to have Skype on my phone. PLease get Sprint in your LOOP!

a1astudio commented Saturday, Jun 26

multitasking - push notification...you're playing with words in this case. Sure you can have Skype sitting in the background but unless you can receive a call and be informed that you have a call it is not effective multitasking in the use of Skype. Sure every app can be "multitasked" but that doesn't make it effective. The key is for Skype to be in the background, you receive notification that you're receiving a call and be able to answer it. Does anyone really care that Skype is "multitasked" at this point because it is totally ineffective. BTW... have you read what Mr. Peters stated above, here it is as a reminder, "we’ve been hard at work building an update to our iPhone app which will support multitasking in iOS 4". It's his words folks....they don't support "multitasking" so quit trying to confuse everyone with the "push notification" issue. No one is confused but you.

hypnosmd commented Saturday, Jun 26

What?

trent.m.lewis commented Saturday, Jun 26

A1studio, I think you may have just became very confused by what I just said....

martin.koistinen commented Saturday, Jun 26

Someone said above: "Steve Jobs is so gonna be pissed off [at Skype for delaying this release]."

Actually, I don't think so. Every day that Skype isn't iOS4 ready, FaceTime is making more headway. I suspect that this delay is related to the newly complexified relationship between Skype and Apple. Could be that Skype are looking to integrate with FaceTime, or could be that they're re-thinking their strategy with the iPhone. Time will tell–hopefully not too much time though!

a1astudio commented Sunday, Jun 27

Ios4's "multitasking" freezes programs except music can play in the background, GPS can give directions and voip can answer calls as long as the music app (e.g. pandora), GPS app (e.g. Navigon) and voip app (not Skype yet) are designed to perform these functions. ios4 doesn't run multiple programs at the same time so it is not true multitasking. Loading one task while you perform another, is not available unless the developer adds that function under a special task completion API.

At this point, the Skype app is not designed to answer calls in the background and therefore it doesn't multitask in the way ios4 is designed to multitask a voip program. Yes, ios4 at present "freezes" Skype like any other program which and this ios4 defines as "multitasking" and if you double click on the home key and see your "apps" running in the background (according to ios4) and click on Skype it will take you to where you left off. However, it is NOT MULTITASKING in the way ios4 is designed to manage a "voip" program and will not be until Skype creates the app. I am not even sure why "push notification" was brought up since it is an issue of multitasking for a voip program and that is what was stated at the Apple Conference and not just "push notification" which is a part of a voip app that multiasks under ios4.

Trent, I think you need to find out what a voip app under ios4 is designed to do. What many of us are upset with is that Skype has not designed an app that loads and operates in the background to appropriately multitask as they stated they would at the Apple Conference 3 months ago.

hypnosmd commented Sunday, Jun 27

I think alot of us brought up push as an example of Skype's not taking advantage of a function people beg Skype to enact a year ago. Again we are dealing with a company that does not listen to it's customers.They do not listen plain and simple.

a1astudio commented Sunday, Jun 27

I agree, push notification is important but not the end all. To be considered mutltasking the app needs to load and operate in the background so even if you are on a Skype call you can utilize other programs at the same time. That is what Navigon has designed. In any case, I don't believe anyone can watch the Skype presentation at the Apple conference and conclude that it was primarily about push notification and not multitasking. Yes, it included push notification but it was entirely about "multitasking" and trent is just flat out wrong.when he states, "...what was actually said, referring to the push notification, not multitasking. That has been misquoted several times in these comments." It hasn't been misquoted and it is an important distinction to make even though I would hope we all want to see fully functioning multitasking on the Skype app and not just "push notification".

karl.ruegge commented Sunday, Jun 27

Skype should not give their product to Mr. Steve Jobs for presentation at the WWDC210.

If you were shown there you have to deliver one or 2 weeks later, normaly at release date of the ios4!

Multitasking, that means for me, using Single Chat or Chat rooms, should be working at release Day of the iOS4.

Skype is blaming themselve

dlanagan commented Sunday, Jun 27

Here's a thought... maybe telcos and/or regulators are starting to cause an issue here. The second the Skype application can be online all the time and you are receiving/sending calls through it then it destroys a revenue stream for the Telco's who, thanks to public demand, have delivered unlimited data. As a result Skype are almost being forced to adopt a charge for 3G calls strategy to meet regulation guidelines as an operator or maybe to quell rows between Apple, Skype, Telcos.

The landscape is changing significantly and convergence of these technologies and their transport mechanisms cause serious revenue loss is certain areas - it's no longer as easy as developing an app and getting it out there - maybe pressures from outside are causing skype issues and they're having to add more metering and the like in to the app to cover their backside?

Just one possibility...

trent.m.lewis commented Sunday, Jun 27

Riiight, ok what is supposed to happen is skype runs in the background yes. When you receive a call you get that little push notification pop up box saying that you have an incoming call. That popup box is what the presenter was referring to when he said only a few lines of code to implement. Skype were not saying that implementing multitasking was as simple as a few lines of code. Have another watch of the video...

hypnosmd commented Sunday, Jun 27

I think we can all agree we don't have any of the above features. Let us not split hairs with each other. We should be imploring Mr. Parkes tp give us an update!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

a1astudio commented Sunday, Jun 27

From Skype I would like to see the following:
1. A timetable of testing with indications what they are testing
2. A tentative date when the new app will be available
3. As the tentative date approaches a definite date when the app will be available if they are off schedule for some reason
4. Highlights of the new app
5. Specific modifications we will see in the new app

Surely they know what will be available in the new app and they have some idea when they will be finished testing. Internally they should have a launch date for the app. It would be nice to share some of this info with the waiting public. I for one would appreciate the info...at least I wouldn't be looking on the iphone everyday to see if they have launched the app if they don't expect to have it available until August.

alex786 commented Sunday, Jun 27

Comeback on skype do some thing, make ur self usefull, time is running.

andrew.oakeshott2 commented Monday, Jun 28

WHEN IS THE SOFTWARE UBDATE GOING TO BE RELEASED !!!!!!!!!

a1astudio commented Monday, Jun 28

On June 21 Peter Parkes says "...We just don’t want to release it to the public until we’ve had an opportunity to put it through our full testing cycle on the final version of iOS 4, which will be released today. Simple as that ". It's now a week later, June 28.... HOW FAR ALONG ARE ON YOUR "FULL TESTING CYCLE"?

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 28

Just got off the phone with apple It people .they have confirmed that Skype has not even submitted ios4 update because they want to take full advantage of video calling. They are taking advantage alright,of every customer paying and non paying on the multitasking function. Thank God apple was honest and able to communicate this important bit of info.Why in hell can not skype update multitasking first then video. They would rather try to please future customers than give their loyal paying customers what they demoed in april.

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 28

By the way call email and voice your concerns to apple this is the only way it seems to put any pressure on Skype. There is a reason why there is no chat or voice support for Skype.

a1astudio commented Monday, Jun 28

Video calling?.... Maybe their update will only be relevant for iphone 4 users. Or maybe iphone 3gs users can use a mirror and their back facing video recorder to make video calls. In any case, thanks for the update, hypnosmd, Of course, Skype isn't sharing any of this info. According to Peter Parkes intro to this blog, "...we’ve been hard at work building an update to our iPhone app which will support multitasking in iOS 4...." it's been all about getting us multitasking. Even if Skype bullds it, will Apple approve it considering it would go up against their Face Time app? I agree with you, first give us the multitasking app which is going to be bigger for me than any video calling and then if they want to add video calling...do that in a later update.... by the way, where would I "call email"...on Apple's site?

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 28

go to apple web site then support either for iPhone or iTunes then email option or call 1-800-apl-care if you have apple care protection plan.

raqib.huq commented Monday, Jun 28

Does the new update allow users to stay signed in, and receive Skype IM? Are there sound/push notifications for it?

Is it updated for the retina-display?

Does it finally have Bluetooth support? A non-buggy landscape mode?

a1astudio commented Monday, Jun 28

SKYPE HAS GONE DARK ... no info...

jgaskiniv commented Monday, Jun 28

This is a tragedy, yes, but not the first time someone demoed an app at an apple keynote, and didn't follow through. A much much larger company demoed an app last year that never came out period.

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jun 28

If Skype won't answer us. Contact Apple. Call them they seemed receptive

daniel.s.maloney commented Tuesday, Jun 29

I upgraded to iOS4 almost exclusively because I knew Skype was offering a multitasking version, per the keynote. That I'm on iOS4, not only do I find that Skype hasn't been updated, but I can no longer jailbreak my iPod so as to re-install Backgrounder and get my Skype functionality back. I'm going to have to restore to the older OS just so I can use Skype.

Thanks Skype, for screwing over millions of iOS4 upgraders.

a1astudio commented Tuesday, Jun 29

SKYPE HAS GONE BLACK....no info....DOESN'T CARE WHAT YOU THINK!!!!!

peykanash commented Tuesday, Jun 29

I have made a video about this specific topic today :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEBVxXoyRcA

francisguidera commented Tuesday, Jun 29

Here's what I believe is happening. Telcos are selling the iPhone so they can make money from phone calls. Skype is a real and present threat to them. It is in no telco's interest to have skype running in the background bypassing their call charges. It is also highly likely that the telco's are freaking out at the possibility of 3G networks being crushed by the volume of traffic that a now SHOWCASED Skype will create, it could seriously bring networks to a standstill. Imagine millions of users on Skype all of the time instead of using their normal cellphone network. I am not sure the networks could cope with demand. This may have all looked great on paper, and somewhere along the line they may have realizes what a cannot worms they were opening. Of course, the telco's may have had a tantrum and Skype may be on hold due to their objections. We will never know the truth. But this stinks of behind the scenes wrangling.

mattjames666 commented Tuesday, Jun 29

Im so angry with SKYPE for not supplying us with the upgrade, that i have signed up and started using icall, and have connected a local number in australia with LINGO.com that forwards to it. I was a paying customer, and hundreds, if not thousands a year on calls. Its unacceptable that they just left us in the lurch! Goodluck people waiting for the skype upgrade as i have not only given up, i tell everyone i know not to sign up with skype as they are deplorable. I was a loyal paying customer from the beginning! NO more!

hypnosmd commented Tuesday, Jun 29

Hey Skype all this conjecture about you status is going to prove disastrous.

wvcachi commented Wednesday, Jun 30

I appreciate the quality of Skype, and look forward to its being compatible with iOS 4.

I just really hope it's coming soon. Seeing it demoed several months ago sure made it seem like it would have been available by now.

If there are backroom politics going on with Apple and the mobile carriers then fine, but don't take us for idiots. If there were that many bugs to work out, I don't think Mr. Jobs would have used it to show off his new OS in April.

I look forward to seeing the update, but the natives are getting restless . . .

rlberg4 commented Wednesday, Jun 30

For all of you complaining, have a look at Truphone - it claims to work in the background, but they have had tons of trouble with the stability of the app. I, for one, am thankful that Skype is tending to the app prior to releasing. I would be more frustrated if I faced an insecure app that crashed consistently, ate up my memory and battery, and simply could not be relied upon during use.

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jun 30

If it were any other company I would say you have a point. However, this is skype they can not even give us push notification 1 year and counting. Plenty other companies including other voip's have been using push for months. So forget about multitasking. SKYPE SUCKS

a1astudio commented Wednesday, Jun 30

For 30 days I am trying Line2 for free. I doubt if I'll continue at $15 a month but at least it has push notification and hides in the background and works great so far using wifi. I was running another app and it pushed notified me and I answered. It works in stand by as well. Has caller ID. It will be great for just letting someone know how to reach me and be able to do other things on my iphone for the next 30 days. Maybe, if Skype is not up after 30 days I'll use it longer. Also, it's easier to sign up on their website and get your number. In addition, you have a choice of skipping entering a credit card until your 30 days are up. I 'm using my "forwarding" on my Skype number so I can give it out and have the call forwarded to my Line 2 number. Let's see where Skype is after 30 days.

wvcachi commented Wednesday, Jun 30

Thanks for the tip on Line 2. For anyone looking for a good alternative to Skype on the iPhone, you can download it for free and just set it to VOIP only and turn "VOIP over 3G" to ON if you want to avoid using cellular minutes.

You can check it out in the AppStore - it's gotten good reviews.

I don't work for the company, I just like having corporate competition so we have an alternative when a service like Skype keeps us hanging.

jethrojames commented Wednesday, Jun 30

Every single day i always check my app store to see if there is an available update for skype. Im not mad i just need some answer WHEN??!! ITS ALMOST JULY For crying out loud!!

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jun 30

Hey thanks for the tip on Line2 it works great. Tick tock Skype time is ticking away

martinytr commented Wednesday, Jun 30

Signed up with Line 2, got calls while app running in background. Skype you have 30 days...

ecutts commented Wednesday, Jun 30

Dear Skype,

Not to be mean, but I sure hope you guys are feeling the pressure from your loyal customers. I too have been a paying customer, as your rates are pretty good for a certain country that I call often. And now since I've purchased a new iPhone 3GS and upgraded the iOS in anticipation of the multitasking capabilities and being able to fully use Skype from a cellphone, I find myself feeling similarly to others who have posted on here.

I too will now check out Line2 for the 30 days, but I sure hope that Skype will fix up their act, and show us that you're still worth the money we pay. Of course I will still use Skype on my computer, and I'd really love to use you on my iPhone...so please...

cseshan commented Wednesday, Jun 30

The very fact that they dont have a release date, after already having delayed this long..shows that they dont foresee a nearby date..

wvcachi commented Wednesday, Jun 30

Note that Skype is owned by eBay, who is notorious for taking their most loyal customers for granted and targeting Joe Buyer. Take ebay's apps for iPhone/iPad: they offer only the most basic functions, and even their "Seller's" app doesn't even let you edit an auction or mark an item as shipped. They don't care about loyalty: they just want to draw in the masses. I sense a similar set of priorities here . . .

In my opinion, that's all the more reason to give Line 2 a shot. They don't care about whining on a message board, they will care if we take our business elsewhere, and help build up a potential competitor in the process.

harrypehkonen commented Wednesday, Jun 30

Skype is owned by eBay? Does eBay own any other VoIP providers? Are any of the other VoIP providers using Skype's infrastructure? Is there something we should know?

wvcachi commented Wednesday, Jun 30

I take that back: just read that eBay sold 70% of the shares to an investor group last year, so maybe my point wasn't valid . . .

wvcachi commented Wednesday, Jun 30

btw Line 2 is a solid alternative, but man, is their app icon uuuuuugly!!

a1astudio commented Wednesday, Jun 30

Line2 iphone app work's great and you have to give them kudos for the timely execution of their app. Maybe Skype got caught up in the hype of face time and forgot about their core customers. Otherwise I just don't get it. If Line2 has the talent to give us push notification and multitasking voip, what is Skype waiting for? Line2 has already stolen their thunder in the voip multitasking arena...what Skype will give us is simply an afterthought with some better pricing at best. I'm a Skype paying customer and they simply blew it no matter what they do at this point. We just wanted voip multitasking and is that too much to ask?

cwisnoski commented Wednesday, Jun 30

OK Skype - We are still waiting !!! (Jeopardy music playing in background)

a loyal Skype customer, with an iPhone 4 waiting for an update

harrypehkonen commented Wednesday, Jun 30

Is Line2 owned by the same group of investors as Skype? It would make sense for them to move Skype customers to the more expensive Line2 to increase revenue.

I would not be happy if they were trying to do such a move secretly. Is that even legal?

wvcachi commented Wednesday, Jun 30

I doubt it: it only came up for conversation here because we frustrated Skype users got fed up and started researching alternatives. Line2 is run by Toktumi, which, according to Wikipedia, runs out of San Francisco.

stephen.whiteley1 commented Wednesday, Jun 30

Wow some of you guys sound like 10 year olds who didn't get their candy, a little perspective is required, save the angst and indignation for when China invades cos they want all their money back that they've lent you to buy iPhone 4's.....having said that, and as mentioned previously, maybe if skype gave some good reasons for why it's late they could help their cause because at the moment it sound like it's late cos they can't be bothered to apply the resources to finish it!

a1astudio commented Wednesday, Jun 30

harrypehkonen ... so are you an employee of Skype?... No one is permanently moving to Line2 unless Skype doesn't get their act together but basically because of cost. I would move to Line2 immediately and leave Skype in the dust if Line2 was more cost competitive.. Let me rephrase this: I might very well move to Line2 if Skype doesn't get us an app pronto and I would ask for my money back based on false presentation at the Apple Conference. Probably Skype is going to come out with their app announcing Skype PLUS and bite us in the buxx.

wvcachi commented Wednesday, Jun 30

10 years old who didn't get their candy is one way to look at it . . .

Adults who are paying a company real money and are waiting for that company to deliver a service that they promised is another way to look at it . . .

At least "when China invades," we'll be able to call our loved ones over Line2.

a1astudio commented Wednesday, Jun 30

stephen.whiteley1 commented, "Wow some of you guys sound like 10 year olds who didn't get their candy". Stephen, I am sorry that you only have a 2nd generation iphone and can't use the additional features promised us poor souls in the ios4 who have a 3gs or iphone4. We are paying customers of Skype and we watched the Apple Conference where Skype "demoed" their multitasked voip. Yes, we are mad as hell at Skype. They are one of these corporations who have no regard to their customers and they lied to us and their "coming soon" logo is just a put off. It's the principle of their lies and their misinformation. THIS BLOG is the avenue we have been given "by Skype" to vent our frustrations. You can't reach them on phone or by email. The workaround to reach them is to contact Apple and complain. Yes, Stephen, there are more important things in life than complain about a multitasked voip from Skype but if I want to complain about China or the oil spill I'll do it where i should and not on this blog. ON THIS BLOG I am complaining about SKYPE and I have every right to do so. In the meantime I'll use my iphone with Line2 who I am grateful has given me 30 days of peace.

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jun 30

Another person with another grandiose irrelevant political statement. Keep it in perspective. We are talking about a company with poor track record that takes the stage and then cannot deliver now with multitasking, and a year ago when push was introduced. They are unbelievably lame.

andy.j.cook commented Thursday, Jul 1

As a software development manager myself I feel for Skype and the other companies. Yes they were not ready on day1 as we would have all liked but I feel more of the blame should be directed at Apple who did not complete iOS4 far enough in advance of their hardware release to allow certification of the key apps. How many apps did you see release iOS4 certified versions on the day of iOS4 release? Surely Apple should have committed their own staff's time to assisting their flagship apps suppliers in testing. Looks more than slightly stupid that apps used at the press release were not available on day1.

stephen.whiteley1 commented Thursday, Jul 1

I agree with andyjcook there were lots of companies not ready 'on the day', for example I paid good money for the copilot app on launch day and it just crashed - users were mad at them as well but they sorted it out in a few days and are still sorting a couple of issues out. I also do have an iPhone 4 @ a1astudio and am looking forward to skype multitasking but I am a developer and understand that getting it wrong is sometimes worse than getting it finished - people need to chill and go for a run

a1astudio commented Thursday, Jul 1

I have written thousands of lines of code and I am not impressed with individuals who try one up man ship games by saying they are "software developers". Many of us fall into that category. You obviously have not been reading the overall content of this blog or you work for Skype. People are frustrated and rightly so based on Skype's history in releasing information (e.g. over a year before the release of 3g). You have done a disservice to the rest of the people expressing their frustration on this blog by acting like you know what you are talking about. In addition, you come across like pompous axxes. Telling people to go for a run is not going to solve this issue and it is demeaning to people to express that kind of attitude. I don't know what country you come from but this is America. We have the right to express our dissatisfaction over the failure to release an app on time as promised. And I have to give credit to Skype for giving us this forum although it is the only forum we have available. In any case, despite the problems with Apple's secrecy, Line2 has developed a robust voip app that works in the background and provides push notification. Most importantly it came out BEFORE Apple released their hardware. What excuse are you going to give Skype NOW.

a1astudio commented Thursday, Jul 1

BTW--- I am more than open to hearing legitimate and intelligent reasons for Skype's delay. So far, things like "chill out", "go for a run", "quit acting like a 10 year old" sound moronic and simplistic reactions to honest discussion and expressed frustration. Go try out Line2 and then come back and explain why Skype has not put out a voip app.

hypnosmd commented Thursday, Jul 1

I tend to agree with the above comment. We can all appreciate your perspective. However explain how every app that wanted to use push notification has accomplished the task. Can you really defend Skype on this point. Like I said before Their track record speaks for itself.

wvcachi commented Thursday, Jul 1

Pandora = ready for iOS 4 on day 1.

Line2 (competing VOIP app) = ready for iOS 4 now.

Skype not only had the almost 3 months that every other developer had, they also got a head start--remember, they had a working demo before the rest of the world even knew about iOS 4. The betas and the final version only had very minor variations, as far as I could tell.

I'm considering subscribing to Line2 purely out of spite for Skype's taking their customers for granted.

wvcachi commented Thursday, Jul 1

I chatted with a rep from Toktumi (company that runs Line2), requesting that she pass along the tip to their Marketing Dept. about the growing frustration among Skype users--and encouraged them to seize the opportunity! I referred them to this forum.

harrypehkonen commented Thursday, Jul 1

@a1astudio I don't work for Skype, but I'm a paying customer.

I appreciate the folks who complain because I think they just may push Skype to put extra effort into shipping the new release sooner, or, at the least, provide us with an ETA.

hypnosmd commented Thursday, Jul 1

You can't push skype to do anything,particularly push notification(1 year late). No pun intended.

steveschauer commented Thursday, Jul 1

I signed up and installed Line2 last night. 30 day trial, no credit card needed to try it out. Free phone number. Background call pickup. It all works great.

It's not much more expensive than Skype + outbound + phone number. If Skype can deliver before my thirty day trial is up I'll compare and decide then. If not by then, I'll probably abandon Skype and port my number over to Line2 (they don't charge a fee to do that).

mh1ok222 commented Friday, Jul 2

I signed up and installed Line2 on my iPhone 3Gs today, There is a problem, though. I can only receive calls with the app open. Once I minimize the app and make a call, it does not go through. Is this the same problem that Skype may be dealing with also?

wvcachi commented Friday, Jul 2

I emailed David Pogue of the NY Times, telling him of Skype's lack of an update, as well as the little-known alternative, Line2, and he replied:

"Sure! I'll do a post."

steveschauer commented Friday, Jul 2

Well after some more tests today, I gotta say Skype's voice quality is much better than Line2's.

Come on Skype! Even just a recompile so it would support fast app switching would be welcome.

a1astudio commented Friday, Jul 2

mh1ok222 --- make sure you have installed ios4 on your iphone. Otherwise I don't have a clue what's the problem. Works fine in the background on my 3gs.

a1astudio commented Friday, Jul 2

steveschauer --- I haven't found Skype's voice quality appreciably better than Line2 nor can I find voice quality problems listed on forums. for Line2. I agree, I would like to see Skype do something with the app or give us a timetable. In any case, what "tests" are you running that show such a difference?

mh1ok222 commented Friday, Jul 2

a1astudio --- Obviously i have iOS 4 installed, i thought u wud assume that. I dont have a clue...i reinstalled the app a couple of times, still same problem. While the app is open, the call comes in...when its minimized, it goes to voicemail. All other multitasking apps work perfectly, like pandora.

im1000000man commented Friday, Jul 2

iPhone 4 owner sick of waiting for an update... I'll be testing other services meanwhile. Possibly I'll cancel my Skype monthly subscription in less than a month because of the lack of Bluetooth calls and iOS 4 multitasking...

wvcachi commented Friday, Jul 2

For me, backgrounding and receiving calls on Line2 works great.

Call quality has been good for me. Line2 to Line2 sounds excellent - Line2 to a regular mobile sounded okay, which leads mento believe the limitation was from the other end.

steveschauer commented Friday, Jul 2

@a1astudio: Just a couple of phone calls to land lines. On two different wifi nets. Who knows, maybe it was a temporary glitch. I've had moments with poor quality on Skype too.

Another problem I ran into with Line2 was that if my mic wasn't plugged in when the call started ringing (I'm using an iTouch not an iPhone) I couldn't get the mic to work until I force-quit the app and tried again.

But I do have to say, the Line2 app is really slick. Things are laid out well, it feels polished, and the backgrounding makes it SO usable.

a1astudio commented Friday, Jul 2

mh1ok222 ... sorry, no clue how to help as Line2 works fine on my iphone in the background.

IT's AN OPPORTUNITY for companies like Line2, truphone, iCall etc to get their act together on pricing and capability while Skype is sitting on their hands doodling with their app. 1.7 million iphone4's sold in 3 days. Can you imagine how many ios4 downloads? Skype customers have to be crawling up the walls wondering what the heck happened to multitasked Skype voip. Opportunity only knocks once in a blue moon...this is it!!!

ciprian.mindru commented Friday, Jul 2

Come on Skype is July 02nd and nothing yet about iOS update, how long you still need. You got the iOS before everybody else when Apple presented a sneek peek back in March and after 12 days of official release of iOS4 you are not ready?????? Other voip companies will release an update before you. I think you don't care about your customers or you don't read this blog to see how many people are angry. At least if you care about your image give a date not only bullshit "soon" or that you need to test the application!! People are working on this app on their free time as a part time job or they are on holidays??? How many months you still need????

jefferymd commented Friday, Jul 2

I am a paid Skype user. Pay year at a time and have a skype phone #...
I downloaded Line2 last night and all I can say is WoW. I am going to take full advantage of the free month and to be honest I don't think I will be going back to Skype.

aaronjanderson commented Friday, Jul 2

I'm really excited for this update. I can't believe all of the bad press this blog entry is getting... Come on Skype, get on with it. Release it. Or update us.

a1astudio commented Friday, Jul 2

aaronjanderson ... don't hold your breath

mh1ok222 commented Friday, Jul 2

a1astudio, can you tell me what your settings are in Line2? Maybe my settings are wrong and its preventing me from getting calls while in the background. If I can get Line2 to work, i'll drop Skype right away. I've tried this on 2 different iPhone 3Gs's so far that are on iOS 4, and both don't ring while backgrounded.

wvcachi commented Friday, Jul 2

Line2 backgrounds for me as well, and my settings are:

under 'Calling': only VOIP checked. Also 'allow 3G calls' is ON.

I disabled all forwarding numbers and turned Authorized Access # off. No problems receiving calls while backgrounding - hope this helps.

a1astudio commented Friday, Jul 2

My settings are the same as wvcachi... When you double click on the home button do you see Line2 icon in the background list?

mh1ok222 commented Friday, Jul 2

I changed the settings on mines to match wvcachi's settings. Still same problem. It only rings when the app is open on the screen. But after I close it, the call goes to voicemail. Yes, I can see the Line2 icon in the background list after double clicking.

wvcachi commented Friday, Jul 2

Line2 rings perfectly in background on mine and my wife's - and, from what I can tell, everyone else on this forum.
Mh1ok222 - you're the only one I know with this problem: they have live chat on their site at toktumi.com - perhaps go straight to the source for troubleshooting.

wvcachi commented Friday, Jul 2

(since some VOIP providers offer this new-fangled thing called 'customer service')

hypnosmd commented Friday, Jul 2

the above problems with line2 are being addressed. these are know issues with some people and is infrequent. I was having an issue going between access points on same network. They know this is a problem and they are working on it. Isn't this nice solving line 2 problems on a skype blog, maybe they will learn something

wvcachi commented Friday, Jul 2

I know - how funny is this: we went from venting about Skype, to conducting tech support for their competitor on their own forum.

If you're going to ignore your customers and take their business for granted, holding an open forum on your website might not be in your company's best interest hahaha

cmstuber commented Saturday, Jul 3

yeah, i agree that this app should be out prior to ios4 release. there are several apps that are on the ball with this, maybe even more in the jailbreak community.

as for android... android is an extremely tiny market in comparison to the apple market. we're talking a few million in comparison to several million. how many android users are out there? sales report about 10 million. well... apple just sold nearly 2 million iphone 4s in a week. they report selling over 50 million iphones since 2007, and if you look at their sales patterns, they are growing at a rate of 200% each year. last year alone they sold over 25 million, i wouldn't be surprised if that sales growth stays in tact. as for android... although there are many users out there, it seems that it's just a replacement for a blackberry and in the US, the advantage of the android over the iphone is simply CDMA vs GSM coverage. But, as the US is one of the extremely few countries to us CDMA technology, the benefit of the iphone as a worldwide phone (and thus for Skype, a worldwide market) is much more attractive. I think that's also one of the reasons why Apple sticks with AT&T, because building an iphone for CDMA is a limited market, you can only sell it to US customers. Food for thought all you android users

francisguidera commented Saturday, Jul 3

Still nothing?

mh1ok222 commented Saturday, Jul 3

Nothing. This guy Peter Parkes is on vacation until July 4 according to his twitter post...So I guess they'll continue working on July 5...and then another couple of months. Or years...

brian.schan commented Sunday, Jul 4

LOL. Do you think someone at Skype is sitting in thier office, twittling thier thumbs and asking, "What is the best possible way I can alienate a huge portion of my customers?"

wvcachi commented Sunday, Jul 4

Whether they're trying to alienate a huge portion of their customers or not, they're succeeding admirably at it.

If this delay is due to some grandiose plan to update it with FaceTime/video calling, the fact that they couldn't release the multitasking-friendly version FIRST (you know, the one that was shown working IN EARLY APRIL) while they work on the video chat . . . well . . . I'm planning on sticking with Line2 no matter what Skype does. Hope more of you will follow suit to discourage these kinds of business practices.

dashinsach commented Sunday, Jul 4

i'm sure they will launch it in august after voip over 3g is charged.

francisguidera commented Sunday, Jul 4

Well I pay to receive calls from the USA anyway so release it already!

francisguidera commented Sunday, Jul 4

Brian Schan, no professional company would demo s product, tells their customers how excited they are about it and then leave everyone hanging with 'coming soon'. O pay for this service. I want to know if it's going to be 6 months or 1 more week! So I can make a decision as to whether or not I should close my skype account and go with someone else.

wvcachi commented Sunday, Jul 4

I think they're making your decision easier and easier with each passing day.

brian.schan commented Sunday, Jul 4

Francis - I know. That was my point. I wasn't defending Skype. I am really starting to wonder if Skype is purposely trying to make its loyal customers mad.

nightvisiongear commented Sunday, Jul 4

Guys, I cannot find line 2 on my countryside iTunes store, but there definitely are alternatives to Skype. I use "Acrobits" soft phone, and it is excellent. Even before "ios4", with acrobits on your iPhone, if you get an incoming call, the phone rings, acrobits launches itself and within 2-3 seconds at most, you can answer the call. The only difference IOS4 seems to have made is that you can lock the screen on the app, without closing the app. But it doesn't matter anyway, because even with the app closed it still works. THIS PUTS Skype TO SHAME. It works with all SIP providers, except, naturally Skype. The standard answer from morons on here is "quit griping, skype is free" which is making me sick!!!!
SKYPE IS NOT FREE, indeed if it was, they would be working harder on fixing it; but at the moment they have their subscribers money, so very short sightedly care less.
BTW, the one time I did email acrobits, I got a detailed answer within 24 hours. So Skype,where do you think your customers are going to go?

mhibm13 commented Sunday, Jul 4

Haha funny. Look, I looked up your little Acrobits, ya, stinks. It proves worthless compared to a free service such as Skype. It's more like a $20 scam.
I've been using Skype now for over 5 years, and it has made a big impact on me. I've chatted with people from my past that I havnt seen in years, talked with them face to face even. And especially, Ive learned to make an awesome phone out of it. For free, yes, free. And all you people dissing Skype, well just don't use it. Not like physically use it, but don't extend it anywhere. You can even put it on your computer to get calls! Give it a chance, ignore the bad reviews, and live on. God Bessie America, and Happy 4th.

nightvisiongear commented Sunday, Jul 4

Like I said, morons!!!! I have used both Skype and Acrobits, and so am in a position to have an opinion on both. Where iPhones are concerned, acrobits works just as it says it will, while skype does not (not even close). So until you are in a position to add something to the posts that you have personal experience of, I suggest that you go back to watching The Simpsons (unless the plots are too complicated for you).

mhibm13 commented Sunday, Jul 4

Alright, I'll add something I've had plenty of experience in. Defending my opinion. Your asking me to not offend your opinion, when all you did in that post was offend mine? Talk about a moron.

Now can we please get back to the matter at-hand before this simple blog turns into all-out warfare?

a1astudio commented Sunday, Jul 4

nightvisiongear.... like the idea of alternatives but in the FAQ they state: "Q: Does Acrobits Softphone support the new multitasking capabilities of iOS4?
A: Not yet, but we’re working on it. In order to maintain the high quality and reliability our customers have come to expect, we test all new features fully before updating the application. Once we’re sure the new multitasking functionality will meet our customer’s expectations, we will update the softphone to support it. But check for updates regularly, we plan to have it available soon." So, they are working on multitasking along with Skype...

mhibm...what's your point....? we all love the way Skype works without multitasking. We have all made most of our long distance calls using Skype when we are on wifi. We all have done video conferencing on our computers with Skype. We also all pay Skype for their phone service and phone numbers (both my wife and I each have an iphone paying Skype). But we can't travel and receive calls unless we leave Skype on (we use MIFI when traveling)...we can't use the GPS function and receive calls on Skype... Skype misled me into believing that they would release their multitasked Skype on 6/21 -- launch day of the ios4 and not only is it not available but it is "coming soon" whatever that means because they are not providing a timetable.... Keep in mind that Skype's voip multitasking was released not only at the Apple Conference but it was in all the newspapers and magazines....one of the big benefits of ios4 "Skype".... this is just not nitpicking.... there are serious issues here with Skype...

I am going to be traveling in a couple weeks and I would like Skype in the background but at present I am using my 30 days of Line2 which works great.....

nightvisiongear commented Sunday, Jul 4

But you see, nobody cares about what your experience "of "is, if it doesn't have a direct bearing on what is being discussed here. So it remains, you are happy with the present version of Skype on your iPhone - obviously a man with very low expectations, and with no experience of anything else. So if this is all you got, then run along, because you have nothing constructive to add.

nightvisiongear commented Sunday, Jul 4

Hi A1, acrobits I think put that statement up before the release of ios4. It works exactly like I said - even if you have closed everything down and have your screen locked, of you get a sip call, your iPhone rings and the program launches to open fully within 2-3 seconds or so, and you can take/reject the call. If you are doing something else on the phone, push notification comes over the top, and again gives you the option to take/reject the call. Now as far as I can see, these are all the things that we were promised skype would be able to do, but yet still can't? Acrobits could do all this before the update, and still works like it should, over 3G or Wifi. Like all voip, if you have a good Internet connection it will work better from a call quality point of view.

a1astudio commented Sunday, Jul 4

nightvisiongear --- so $8 for the app and there are no other expenses? No monthly fee? But, and I haven't read all of the FAQs yet but do you get a phone number?

hypnosmd commented Sunday, Jul 4

Glad to see everyone exercising their rights on the 4th of July. Just a couple of things. First only skype to skype calls are free for now. If you are using skype like most people do' ypu have a skype in number $$$ + VM $$$$. Also freedom of choice is also a good thing ie skype,line2,icall etc... Happy 4th everyone

mhibm13 commented Sunday, Jul 4

Well obviously a person with such persistence to make a fool out of me, you must be quite fond of yourself. If your going to just post anything you want and start blabbing on about something that people really don't even care about, then get heck outta here. Your, how do I put this nicely, replacing the contents of this page to further justify your own personal needs by telling others the precautions of such a program and the "correct" solution.

Simply put, your an immature child who's looking to benefit his/herself. So why don't you lay off and go cry to mommy or something. Your comments are useless here anyway.

hypnosmd commented Sunday, Jul 4

In the immortal words of Paul Revere. One if by landline or two if by VOIP. The British are indeed are not coming. Thats for nothing Skype.

mhibm13 commented Sunday, Jul 4

Thanks for breaking it up hypnosmd. To further the point, I'd like to mention that Skype IS in fact only a chat program for users to talk to eachother via internet without the constant annoyances of ads. Calling is an added feature in which, although useful, is not always the main purpose of the application itself. As part of my 10 step iPod to iPhone conversion plan for free, Skype plays a big role. Having this update will mean recieving calls while out of the app, enabling it's recieving calls feature.

nightvisiongear commented Sunday, Jul 4

A1, acrobits is simply a piece of software that makes voip work on your iPhone - they are not a telco. So your one off cost of eur 6 or usd 8 is purely got the software and support/updates as necessary. However, it is compatible with loads of VOIP providers. The provider I use gives rates of 2 cent a minute or less to most landlines throughout the world, and rates to cell phones are less than half (in some cases) of the rates that skype are looking for. No charges or restrictions for 3G! Incoming calls depend on your supplier also, but with mine, no problem. Configure the account details into acrobits, and you will receive incoming calls as I have already described. Most VOIP providers will give you the option of a local number (that is local to your home geographical location) so if your friends or family want to call you while you are on the other side of the world, it won't cost you anything and it will only cost them the price of a local landline call. My provider even emails you your voicemail as a.wav file, which can be played directly from your email inbox on the iPhone. However, not every provider will do this, so you should shop around for these features.
All the best!

nightvisiongear commented Sunday, Jul 4

mhibm13 commented Sunday, Jul 4
Well obviously a person with such persistence to make a fool out of me, you must be quite fond of yourself. If your going to just post anything you want and start blabbing on about something that people really don't even care about, then get heck outta here. Your, how do I put this nicely, replacing the contents of this page to further justify your own personal needs by telling others the precautions of such a program and the "correct" solution.
Simply put, your an immature child who's looking to benefit his/herself. So why don't you lay off and go cry to mommy or something. Your comments are useless here anyway.

I think it's pretty obvious to anyone reading here who the infantile egomaniac troll is ( and it isn't me). I mentioned acrobits purely to put the failings of skype on the iPhone-in it's present form- into some sort of perspective. Obviously lost on someone like you who is apparently happy to revel in mediocrity. So once again, unless you have something constructive to add (which is looking increasingly unlikely), SSHHHH, the adults are talking!

a1astudio commented Sunday, Jul 4

I don't know who posted this but it's time to repost. Skype is pulling htmls off this blog so you will have to make the one "dot" change I have: http://whenwillskypereleaseios4appdotcom/

mhibm13 commented Sunday, Jul 4

I'm findin this pretty comical. Your goin off into oblivion on how messed up I am. I havnt heard one constructive thought out of you since my comment. So unless u messed up little puck brat wants to say something actually useful to this conversation, go ahead. Otherwise, (highly doubt it), let the professionals handle it.

And you said you wanted something "constructive", right? I just so happen to work for an app company myself. I know that although Skype has presented a version of their app in April, based upon improvements needed to be made to accommodate ios4 that couldn't be displayed on a correct scale. They showed a functioning version, yes, but that does not mean their prepared for what the public could put the test to. I also know that app releases and updates have been extremly jammed. For all we know it could be out in a day or two. If you have any other questions concerning my thoughts, please don't hesitate to ask, unless your some immature child who cant seem to get a grip on himself (hmmmm now who could that be?)

hypnosmd commented Sunday, Jul 4

Let's play nice. This has never been about a purely tech issue. It is skype's arrogant and dimisive tone. Let's face you when you play for high stakes you better be able to handle the fallout. Again there is no way to defend 1 year + and no push notification. this is indefensible. That why I say look at that abysmal track record and don't wonder why they are not ready for ios4.

a1astudio commented Monday, Jul 5

mhibm13.... interesting comments... you do sound like a responsible professional who knows what he/she is talking about ... NOT! You are all over the map with your comments ... I don't care what their "core" business is, what they have done for me, etc.... they were given the WORLD stage by Apple to demonstrate their VOIP multitasking push notification app... they raised everyone's expectations.... they didn't deliver and they don't feel they have any responsibility to their patrons to explain anything!!! What planet are you on? I don't necessarily feel like playing nice with people who are clueless about what we are frustrated about. Read the blog and quit worrying if someone is trying to rattle your feathers.

mhibm13 commented Monday, Jul 5

You know what, your absolutly right.....

Not getting back to the REALITY of the situation, it seems as though you haven't the slightest clue of what I'm tring to point out. I don't know if you've notice, but apps that need updates have been going a bit slow lately, right? There's a "jam" of new updates to accommodate ios4 on the new apps, and Skype is given no special treatment.

But, after careful consideration, I can see that my words are deemed useless by all of whom who read this. Let me rephrase that, all of whom who has posted today. But do I care, not really. Am I leaving, not a chance. Are you a Skype employee threatening to remove my account in which I barley use, no. So back off and actually think before you speak. Or in this case, type. God bless.

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jul 5

This is exactly what skype wants. Skype sits idly by,while you argue. Skype is the real problem with no responsibility to their customers. They are nothing more than cowards. That includes you Mr. Parkes.

mh1ok222 commented Monday, Jul 5

To all of you who are thinking the app is in the approval process...how the fuck is it going to be there if they haven't even submitted the update to Apple yet? Developers of apps that are this popular tell their customers when they have submitted an update for their app. Don't tell me their 3G update took more than 150 days to get approved.

hypnosmd commented Monday, Jul 5

hey got 4 updates today not one of them skype WTF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

a1astudio commented Monday, Jul 5

No matter what we might feel about the failure of Skype to provide an app when expected or their continued failure to provide the app or even a timetable they have too many things going on at the same time. Also, they are headed face to face up against Apple with their video calling "...coming out later this year....We're betting big on video, and we intend to set the bar on mobile video calling, and it's something we're going to do this year." Of course, this is for Android phones because most likely Apple would not let them submit one for the iphone with Face Time available on iphone4. So, at this point I think we are going to have to take a back seat and wait it out until they get "a round tuit".

brian.schan commented Tuesday, Jul 6

I've thouroughly tested all popular voip apps currenly availible both from a functionality, call quality, useability and pricing standpoint. My top 3 are (in no particular order), Acrobits, Skype and Siphon. My intent, as I am sure most of the people here are looking to do also, is to replace the native phone app with VOIP (aka go all data and cancel voice). Here is my take:

Skype - Pros: nice call quality. Nice features other then phone (ie sms, chat...etc). WHen all is said and done, will end up costing around $8/mo ($5 for # and $2.95 for domestic calling). Cons: Slow app startup, can't recieve calls when app is closed (not even push notifications...etc). Does not play nice with Backgrounder (JB phones only). And worst of all, Skype is unresponsive to the massive outpouring of customer feedback, such as this forum.

Acrobits - Pros: Extreamly good call quality with 729.A codec. Can choose sip provider. Did the best they could with 3.1.3, as they do send push nots when app is closed. CONS: App is not free (around $18 when all is said and done). I use callcentric as the sip provider. Charges are $1.95/mo for # + $.015/min domestic. (aka for $5 you get 330 mins, but you can use them anytime, not just within a month) App takes a while to fire up from cold start, so even with a push notification, you may not be able to answer call in time (but at least you know that a incoming call came in). Does not play nice with Backgrounder (JB phones only)

Siphon (JB phones only) - Pros: this is my favorite VOIP app currently. App is free and costs are the same as Acrobits (callcentric sip). Plays nice with backgrounder. Very fast to start up. Good call quality. Has VM notifications (like standard phone app). CONS: Doesn't display badges on homescreen icon.

I am eager to see which one of the apps listed above delivers first. Personally, I think there is a significant opportunity now that snapple has opened up the door for VOIP. First app that functions just like the native iphone phone app (or gets close enough) wins my business. If I had to take a wild guess, I think Siphon will win the race, followed by Acrobits, and Skype will be dragging in the rear. Good luck to all.

amorfati6256 commented Tuesday, Jul 6

Hey. Skype
Just take a look at what these guys are doing to explain delayed release of their app for iPad.
http://blog.mindmeister.com/2010/07/05/ipad-app-update/
Is it so difficult to make this simple information available to all the people who are your dedicated customers? I understand the delay, but I just don't understand your obstinate silence.

jacquesdejager commented Tuesday, Jul 6

in South Africa we have a saying, which roughly translated, means "now now". Colloquially this does not mean double quick time - instead it implies a time frame between now and some distant future point. So I guess the Skype developers are working on "now now" time. What a shame, and definately very poor PR

a1astudio commented Tuesday, Jul 6

PETER PARKES ....Would you be so kind as to give us an update? Thanks in Advance!

johncarter2010 commented Tuesday, Jul 6

The real truth is that Skype is working hand in glove with AT&T and you are not about to see the new Skype version for iOS 4 anytime soon. Meaning that AT&T, already can't handle the "iphone data" as it is. Now you know why it is free for another couple of months. Just like AT&T stopped offering unlimited data on the 7th of June the same day Apple and Steve Jobs announced that Netflix will be available in 3G this summer and just as 3G for Skype came out (coincidence? I don't think so). How would you like to use Netflix with a limited data plan? They all work together, Apple + AT&T and whoever provides the app. In this case Skype. And this is NOT done in YOUR interest: the consumer. But they are rather working on how they can pull one over you and make more and more money while providing you with a pathetic monopolistic service. American companies are NOT competing for the iPhone as it is in England, France etc... . Welcome to the good old soviet ERA. Thank you Steve Jobs you are making Bill Gates from Microsoft look like a Boy scout. And SKYPE! STOP BSing us we ARE NOT STUPID. The 4G EVO looks better every day! people! people! wake-up and smell THE GREED! I owned all the iPhone generations but now you have to realize the iPhone is passé. They ripped us off for too long. Enough is enough! You still have time to return your iphone. It is not too late. Only idiots Never change their minds.

a1astudio commented Tuesday, Jul 6

johncarter.....so are you trying to tell us that Skype, Apple, ATT etc are trying to drain every last cent out of our pockets....? I think you're on to something...but I thought that was a given... At least Skype has been reasonably priced, if only they would give us the app they promised. And I could agree with you on several points but the problem is that we have paid for a lot of apps out of the itunes store so it is not just a matter of returning the iphone.... We'd all have to start over with android apps. As for me, I have a factory unlocked iphone (from australia) and I don't use ATT and never would so your suggestion is not something I would seriously entertain... In any case, we are all right here twiddling our thumbs waiting for Skype to give us our app in this life time.

iain.atten commented Wednesday, Jul 7

Please please please please please skype developer people.....

Make your skype app on iphone 4 use the front facing and rear facing camera on iPhone 4! I just bought one and as you can imagine, no one I know has facetime but loads of my friends have skype.... PLEASE make your app use the camera to work with skype like facetime does - it would rock. Everyone will buy an iphone 4 and everyone will want to use skype!

Be the first, be the best - make it happen

antair commented Wednesday, Jul 7

Yet another long term promise...

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jul 7

Get in line for video calls. You are 3rd in the Q. Following Push and multitasking. We are sorry all customer service has been put on hold as well as your patience.

mrsimmouk commented Wednesday, Jul 7

Well Skype, its officially been a month since you got chance to begin testing against the final version of IOS 4 which was released to the public on the 7th of June.

Congratulations for managing to have one of the longest testing phases for a small development project in the history of IT

Lets hope when you finally release the IOS4 compatible version it wont be buggy because you won't be able to pretend you didn't have enough time to test it!

dgoldsc commented Wednesday, Jul 7

Wow, Skype ignores 271 posts... Now they have another one they can not respond to. I really hope someone fills the void.

rtm135 commented Wednesday, Jul 7

Please add video chat for iPhone 4 users!

peykanash commented Wednesday, Jul 7

@mrsimmouk not to defend skype in any way but iOS 4 was released to the public on June 21st not June 7th ! and here is my video about it

:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEBVxXoyRcA

crradams commented Wednesday, Jul 7

I pay for Skype unlimited world, have a number, and all... thinking of switching because of customer service. No answer to all these comments only supports my cause and further increases dissatisfaction in the product.

tannermauk commented Wednesday, Jul 7

@peykanash iOS4 Master Candidate has been available since June 7th for developers which skype is and also I know somebody who works for skype and skype had an iPhone 4 before June 7th for testing apple obviously wanted this app ready which it isn't . ios4 was publicly available June 21st but developers had it before then me being a developer

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jul 7

@tannemauk. Does your friend have any idea what skype is up to?

daniel.s.maloney commented Thursday, Jul 8

Monkey's fly, rocks turn to gold, and skype finally updates their app for iOS4.

Or not.

daniel.s.maloney commented Thursday, Jul 8

IMHO Skype lies, we are not going to see a multitasking version. AT&T probably made apple block them, since nobody would use minutes if there was a free alternative.

Peter Parkes commented Thursday, Jul 8

Thanks for your patience everyone – as I said earlier, as soon as it’s ready, we’ll release it. We don’t have any additional information to share at the moment.

rheuter commented Thursday, Jul 8

"Thanks for your patience everyone – as I said earlier, as soon as it’s ready, we’ll release it. We don’t have any additional information to share at the moment."

Yawn, yawn, yawn...

I would rather you tell me you have shake hands with the devil (at&t) and choose not to release Skype for iOS 4 now rather than treating us like retards...

And no need to thank me as I am running out of patience very very soon... I mean, seriously, you are in the iOS 4 presentation on April 8th demoing Skype for iOS4... That was exactly 3 f*cking months ago! And you have the guts to tell us it is still not ready??? Com'on Pete...

eshan2 commented Thursday, Jul 8

Please please please add bluetooth support, I just bought a bt headset Just to use Skype with, only to realize that skype does not even support bt, boy do I feel stupid...

but seriously bluetooth is important and a must have function to ensure comfort and safety(driving) while talking on the cell, so please have it ready! Thanks for all the hard work!

colin.smith30 commented Thursday, Jul 8

We know you're lying Pete, and all of the skype iPhone team. If you're not then tell us whats really going on. We will change platforms. That is obvious, it will start happing on a growing scale soon. Truphone already supports iOS4. Its only matter of time before Android provides all the skype services you can get over a standard connection with your PC. We WILL leave you now stop fucking around before we do.

hypnosmd commented Thursday, Jul 8

please let TUAW,macrumors etc.........,know what is going on . Any one who has connections please put the word out

limryan commented Thursday, Jul 8

Fring just updated their app! Of course, like everyone else, I'm tired of waiting for Skype.

loco69 commented Thursday, Jul 8

guys you must try the new fring. it's great
no need wait for skype

ncalliari commented Thursday, Jul 8

Wow, Fring has an iOS 4 app out before Skype. &#'SURPRISE'#&

nightvisiongear commented Friday, Jul 9

And it seems to work just like it should - if you are on another screen, it comes across the top, and even if you have the phone locked it brings it out of standby.
SHAME ON YOU SKYPE - a 3rd party app has to this for you, while you sit on your hands! What is wrong with you people?

wvcachi commented Friday, Jul 9

Fring! Works very well - even video chat over 3G!

Line2 was quick to update, but $15/mo. is too expensive. Now I'm using Google Voice with Gizmo5 (bought acct for $7 on eBay) routed through Fring. Google Voice over VoIP w/o using any cell minutes!!!

Too late, Skype. You had your chance. We've moved on. Nothing to see here.

lujieinla commented Friday, Jul 9

Guys. There is better option: fring. It works as a charming. Background running, video chat.... Why bother waiting for skype never-come update.

davidelkington commented Friday, Jul 9

Now the 9th July, still no update... ah well, bye bye skype, hello Fring... Been nice knowing you. NOT

adamhollingworth commented Friday, Jul 9

Thanks for the advice on Fring. It's pretty good. Background action is perfect. If the voice quality over skype was a little better I'd kiss skype's app goodbye!! Damn it! Stoopid useless skype!

jethrojames commented Friday, Jul 9

hey guys.. thanks for the info about the fring app!! hahaha i love it!! never heard about this app since today. but im not quiting skype haha i still love skype!!

ahmed.f.muslim commented Friday, Jul 9

It make sense now probably why skype taking their time to fix the app as after using fring and nimbuz who updated the app today, it need to b bug free. Both apps are good too however don't try and use video calling as it will freeze.

I am sure we skype will be updating shortly.

All the best

a1astudio commented Friday, Jul 9

It seems as though a considerable number of options are evolving as a result of ios4 and at the end of the day we will pick the winner. Gizmo will be interesting to watch since it was taken over by Google. Fring, Line2 etc. Despite the delays will Skype exceed our expectations i.e. if they can get their app out before xmas. I have to say that I strongly dislike their corporate policy in regards to the release of information or updates of their "coming soon" app as expressed by their rep. i.e. Mr. Parkes. It's not a matter of our patience...it's their decision to provide no information whatsoever. Patience be damned is their policy.

nightvisiongear commented Friday, Jul 9

It looks like dirty work afoot - the skype option disappeared from mu updated fring application this evening. I thought it was just me, but i have done a quick search and lots of other fring/skype users on other platforms (than Iphone) are reporting the same thing! Could skype have pulled the plug?
Skypes silence on the update issue has been deafening, maybe its time they stopped hiding and finally explained to everyone what their problem is? Well Mr Parkes???????

nightvisiongear commented Friday, Jul 9

Just found this on the Fring web-site, though I doubt if it is the full story either
"Wow. What can we say… this is great !

Since adding 2-way video calling on iPhone 4 yesterday we have seen another huge jump in fring video calling.

As even more fringsters video call their friends on Android, Nokia and iPhones, we have seen some network ’stress’ (as the techies are telling me). So to free up capacity for more the fring-to-fring video calling, we are temporarily reducing support to 3rd –party Skype. Thanks for your patience.

fringsters, enjoy your video calling, and SEE you later"

Chances are, skype brought some pressure to bear!

wvcachi commented Saturday, Jul 10

If you aren't worried about video chat, and just want iOS 4 VoIP, Nimbuzz updated too. Works great with my Google Voice + Gizmo5! And their servers are probably more stable than fring's right now, since there aren't a million and 1 people video chatting.

a1astudio commented Saturday, Jul 10

The VOIP world is turning around and around for the iphone!

a1astudio commented Saturday, Jul 10

BUT most of us just want a simple multitasked push notification app from Skype...that would make us happy

dgirling commented Saturday, Jul 10

Skype why are you dragging your feet here. I'm one of your revenue generating customers, an early adopter. 50+ million mobile iphone devices, this was your dream a few years ago, have you lost it?. Fring should be a warning, it won't take much to jump ship.

mattwgleason commented Saturday, Jul 10

tick tock, tick tock, tick tock...

kaliboi commented Saturday, Jul 10

Am I the only one wondering how much they're going to start charging come August? I can't find any information about it anywhere and nobody here seems to be thinking of anything but the update.

df-sean commented Saturday, Jul 10

Solution to your Skype/iOS4 woes = Nimbuzz

Instead of spending time blowing off steam here, why not just go download Nimbuzz and be happy. It's Skype client along with others like gTalk, AIM, MobileMe, MSN, Yahoo, etc, etc. Supports push. Even supports using your skypeout account for outgoing calls. It's awesome. It loads much faster than Skype. It's the new version of Skype you've been waiting for

wvcachi commented Saturday, Jul 10

I discovered a big flaw of Nimbuzz though: they limit push notifications to 4 hours (unless, of course, you're on their Nimbuzz calling plan).

I thought it was great too until I discovered that. fring looks like the best option now (I think their servers are finally getting up to speed to handle the new update).

nightvisiongear commented Saturday, Jul 10

Nimbuzz does not work properly with skype. If the screen is off, calls go to voicemail. Fring has removed all reference to skype in it's application and on the app store, so it looks like fring and skype have parted company; I hope I am wrong about this, but this looks like it is more than temporary?

wvcachi commented Sunday, Jul 11

Yeah, looks like lotsa people bent up about fring removing Skype. Temporary or permanent? Because of servers or because of competition?

I can say that, if you aren't trying to stick with Skype, fring works great with a Google Voice/Gizmo5 SIP setup! I wasn't that attached to my Skype number, so happily switched to Google Voice, and bought someone's Gizmo5 acct on eBay.

madsdorup commented Sunday, Jul 11

Please hire a PR agent

rubensepulvedajr commented Monday, Jul 12

How long do you think your customers are going to wait for the update? I'm about running inpatient

mattjames666 commented Monday, Jul 12

PETER PARKES: YOU NEED TO BE FIRED!

mattjames666 commented Monday, Jul 12

PETER PARKES: YOU'RE FIRED!

jacquesdejager commented Monday, Jul 12

Thanks to those who suggested Nimbuzz. Installed and tested it on my iPhone 3gs, it works beautifully and perfectly to send and receive skype calls even if the phone is in sleep mode so it definately does what iOS4 promised - perpetual and seamless multitasking. Thanks Nimbuzz, sorry Skype. You snooz, you looz.

harrypehkonen commented Monday, Jul 12

@eshan2 It's not up to the Skype app -- iOS 4.0 does not support the microphone on Bluetooth devices yet. The headphones will work, but not the mic. I was going to buy a pair

crradams commented Monday, Jul 12

Skype is not going to release for a while and I bet they charge for the app or service. I am letting my account expire and switching services and I suggest all do the same. There's no reason to give a company with faulty promises and marketing your support. I had planned to use Fring to offset my need for Skype on iOS4 until the Skype app came out, but they broke their relationship. I will also email Apple, since they demoed a product I was hoping for when I purchased my iPhone 4.

sandor9691 commented Monday, Jul 12

I 'un-jailbreaked' my phone for use with the skype app... in the appstore its NOT saying it's not ready for ios4! everyone updated to ios4, even the smallest companies, except you guys... wtf is going on?

harrypehkonen commented Monday, Jul 12

@nightvisiongear Thanks for pointing out Acrobits! It works perfectly! I wish Skype had non-proprietary SIP servers so Acrobits would work with it too.

i_levit commented Monday, Jul 12

I'm actually stunned that Skype hasn't yet been updated to support iOS 4. I mean this is supposed to be the flagship VoIP app that was used to demo the new backgrounding capabilities of the latest and greatest OS! Almost every app I have has been updated for iOS 4 support...and none of them had a working demo to show off to the world two months ago like Skype did. It's a bit laughable at this point, honestly.

hector_alatorre commented Monday, Jul 12

Thanks for having such a great application, I personally have 3 Skype in numbers and use the Skype out functionality, also I use Skype on an everyday basis. Since I got my first iPhone (acquired b/s I was expectant that could use Skype in it) I found it like a little toy, why? could not had Skype "on" all the time, for receiving messages, or receiving calls, in the early days there were only voice support under Wifi, so it was a little bit more than useless. Now with the iOS4 and its multitasking announcement, I got excited again (yes, for the second time), I was about to have Skype for all my everyday communications and my iPhone, not useless anymore, it was the real thing, using Skype while having my phone in my pocket... but surprisingly this isn't happening yet.

Can you please be polite with your loyal customers and answer, what does "soon" means to you? it is OK that you say "in a month" or "in a week", some of us would wait or not, but with a certainty on head, not like this, we don't know a word from you.

Thanks

nightvisiongear commented Monday, Jul 12

Hey Harry,

Yeah me too! I tried 3 or 4 different VOIP applications, and Acrobits was the best of them. I like the call recording too, because it saves you having to take notes if somebody is giving you phone numbers or email addresses. What I really liked about it though was that it worked in the background before ios4; OK, if your 3G connection is poor, it can be slow to start up (but if your connection is that poor anyway, there is no point in taking the call ) All the best!

jahorka commented Tuesday, Jul 13

hope the update will take advantage of the new front-facing camera. Otherwise it'd be disappointing...

nightvisiongear commented Tuesday, Jul 13

Well, it looks like censorship is in play - A post where I mentioned f.r.i.n.g was held pending approval, possibly because it contained a link to the website of said company where they have stated that Skype threatened them with legal action if they did not remove it from their great new updated app which allowed skype to work properly on the Iphone. just when you thought skypes PR had gotten as bad as it could get........

daniel.s.maloney commented Tuesday, Jul 13

Skype was my favorite app
But no iOS4 support just made me go snap
So I let my account lapse
"Just payment!" perhaps
For developers that aren't worth a crap!

daniel.s.maloney commented Tuesday, Jul 13

BTW skype gets spanked by fring's iOS4 support -> Skype bans fring. That's pretty pathetic sour grapes you guys. Don't think we don't know why you did it.

a1astudio commented Tuesday, Jul 13

Skype doesn't want to release anything (info, apps etc) except their legal team to denounce fring. Customers are frustrated, dismayed and confused and they feel abandoned by a 2B company who is sitting on their hands except making sure no one damages their "brand and reputation". That's what their working on...making sure that no one damages their brand and reputation...the hell with informing customers as to what is going on...and forget about working on any apps...I'm surprised they are not running 50 million dollars in commercials to "protect their brand and reputation" like BP because their garbage is spewing out onto cyperspace.

wvcachi commented Tuesday, Jul 13

To those excited about Nimbuzz, just know that it'll log you out after 4 hours of idle time (ie n incoming calls after 4 hours). I prefer fring to route my FREE Google Voice +
Gizmo5 VoIP through. Acrobits is good, but doesn't work too well with Google Voice.

As a frequent complainer on this thread, I'm now moving on with my happy fringe solution, and am going to leave you with these parting words:

"F$&@ SKYPE!!!!!"

joaquim_gandara commented Tuesday, Jul 13

Skype, you're embarrassing yourselves. It's time to either take this post down or give us an update.

chriswaitt85 commented Tuesday, Jul 13

Skype are too busy suing the competition right now *cough* fring *cough*

Hurry up you lazy devs. You are my last app that needs updating!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

jethrojames commented Tuesday, Jul 13

Hey guys dont get mad at skype. Maybe they are adding a video call for ios 4 update for 3g 3gs and 4g users (kinda suprise) thats why it takes time for them to test it or to make it posible in there app. Maybe skype realize that they can be beaten by fring because of that!! Hahaha A very BIG HOPE for that!!

jethrojames commented Tuesday, Jul 13

Hey guys dont get mad at skype. Maybe they are adding a video call for ios 4 update for 3g 3gs and 4g users (kinda suprise) thats why it takes time for them to test it or to make it posible in there app. Maybe skype realize that they can be beaten by fring because of that!! Hahaha A very BIG HOPE for that!!

chriswaitt85 commented Tuesday, Jul 13

How are tiny independent companies like fringe and nimbuzz beating you by weeks? Is there only one person in your dev team? This whole situation is weak skype, if you didn't have complete Market domination I would have switched weeks ago. And you say you're "looking into iPad" - Well bring on 2020

Peter Parkes commented Tuesday, Jul 13

@nightvisiongear I can’t see your comment in our spam filter, so I’m not sure what’s happened to it. You can see the link to Fring’s post and our response in Robert Miller’s blog post.

chriswaitt85 commented Tuesday, Jul 13

And I hope everyone knows u can already call for free and video call for free on fring. Since like 2 weeks ago.

nightvisiongear commented Tuesday, Jul 13

Peter, I am sure it must be very distressing for you to see so much raw hostility towards you and your company - the blog you have linked to is even more hostile to skype than this one - isn't it a little ironic that a company like yours that makes it's money in communications cannot seem to communicate? Frings version of events seems more plausible btw, and I think that skype now has major credibility problems.

trent.m.lewis commented Tuesday, Jul 13

The thing i don't get with this whole fuss over the telcos is this. We can already make 3G calls over skype and it is absolutely brilliant. I don't see how being able to run an application in the background and receive notification of calls via push notification would make the situation any different for telcos?

If this telco thing is true... I hope skype bosses are in it because the have a passion for skype and seeing it grow. Not for a huge payout to their own pocket. In the long run, what is a business, without it's customers??

smalbert1990 commented Tuesday, Jul 13

I love Skype and their services, however the current situation is definitely disappointing. The positive side of my mind wants to think that they are holding out on the update for the pure reason that they are testing something out that will be really great for us. On the contrary, they could also be holding out as to get more money from us users. It states on the application as of now that Skype over 3G calls will be free until at least August 2010. Well by the time they release the update it could be right up to that date. As a result, Skype might be holding out so that people can't have Skype running in the background and receive free calls over 3G. This in turn would mean that Skype and its motives are purely motivated through money-sucking antics and that they are a less classy group than I had assumed. If you're going to take THIS long to release an update, then push the free 3G calls over Skype through the end of 2010. At least this would prove to us users that you weren't just holding out as to not let us use this service for free. And YES PETER PARKES, people do know about your company's methods for holding out products in order to gain more money, and it's sick. Please release the update and stop screwing around before you completely tarnish your reputation!

aperley commented Tuesday, Jul 13

Here's my realistic take on what's going to happen with the subject. This is just my speculation, based on the experience with Skype's non-Windows client software over the years.

Skype WILL release the version with background VoIP support eventually - not earlier than September-October time frame. It will be buggy and barely usable - despite their talks that bug squishing is what they are doing right now.

This update WILL NOT have updated hi-res graphics for iPhone 4's Retina display - that's too much to ask for one update. This may come 6-8 months down the road after the initial iOS 4 -aware version.

This update WILL NOT have push notifications for text chats - this is something that Skype in not going to implement AT ALL. It seems curious to me that most of the commenters here just assume that push notifications for text chats will automatically come with the background VoIP. That is not the case at all - push notifications mechanism is entirely independent from background voice. Unlike background VoIP, which only requires adding some code to the iPhone app, push notifications require adding some infrastructure on Skype's server side, and this is simply not going to happen. Skype is not going to make any changes on their servers just for one platform - especially the one they don't really care much about.

Obviously, NO VIDEO CHAT is coming in the foreseeable future. They haven't implemented video chat on any mobile platform yet, and this is not about to change. It will take them YEARS to even begin seriously considering it.

In about a year from now, just in time for second-gen, front-camera-touting iPad mass adoption, we may see a native iPad version of Skype. It will have background VoIP, but no video and no push notifications for text chats. It will not feature a sophisticated re-think of the interface layout like Things for iPad, and will not resemble their state-of-the-art Windows client (FYI, I'm a Mac user and have to struggle with the much neglected Mac client), but will be a simple iPhone app converted into two-pane view a.k.a. iPad mail.

This course of events is very likely to happen if Skype does not seriously re-think their approach to client software development. Some aspects may actually differ from my outline above, but I'm fairly certain in my main bullet points. And one thing I'm 100% sure about - Apple will never feature Skype in their product announcements again.

wvcachi commented Tuesday, Jul 13

NIMBUZZ UPDATE: Nimbuzz removed the ridiculous 4 hour limit for push notifications for iPhone 4 & 3GS users! It's now unlimited, and I can confirm that it works.

If you're using one of those devices, I can now 100% recommend Nimbuzz!!!

hector_alatorre commented Tuesday, Jul 13

Peter, how hard is to answer something else other than the comment on the sue agains the other company, if you are reading, please answer something about your new version.

Thanks

kiran.iphone commented Tuesday, Jul 13

Skype, any date as to when u r going to release the multitasking compatible version ? Or is ur testers still playing around ? what a shame when all ur competitors are already in the market with multitasking, u ppl are still testing it..? will that be ever ready for iOS4..? multi tasking of course

robertrventurini commented Tuesday, Jul 13

@hypnosmd. Seriously! You have nothing better to do than complain? Get a life. You arrogantly profess that you're entitled to make complaints as a paying customer yet the service you decided to pay for didn't include the features you're demanding. Those features don't even fully exist yet even if a the WWDC demo showed one phone call.

I would like to see the new app as much as the next guy. I'm very excited to use it and I continue to hope that it will have full multitasking and FaceTime capabilities despite the assumptions of made by the public

One last thing, when a company tells you they made a demo, look at a model for "the software lifecycle" and see where 'demo' falls. You don't want a demo running on your phone, and you can't morph a demo into fully functional software without huge negative consequences to the overall product. Thats programming 101! Demo's are notorious for being glichy and buggy and are only meant to show the end user what the final product could do and how it could look.

jbeckhamama commented Tuesday, Jul 13

I just bought Skype credit for the two phones my wife and I are taking to Europe this week so we could call home via Skype. We just upgraded to OS 4 and now my Skype won't work and I have put money into Skype credit. So I have money tied up in Skype credit that I cannot use! This is very frustrating!

anna_js1 commented Tuesday, Jul 13

WOW Lots of interesting reading material here .... wanna bet that when Skype does make available its long awaited Multitasking App ... not one of the people who decided to badmouth Skype (and others here) will say ... "Sorry Skype and others for the abusive comments I made and Thanks for the great app for Iphone" .... LOL may be interesting!

hypnosmd commented Tuesday, Jul 13

@anna_jsi. You have it upside down. Skype is arrogant dismissive company. Do you realize they do not have push notification over a year later, much less multitasking. People with skype numbers pay for a service and we have been strung along by a deceptive incompetent company.

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jul 14

I think the fact other companies like line 2 can have multitasking in a timely fashion shows what a respectable competitive company can accomplish. If you had read other comments by myself and others you would realize we are commenting on a troubling track record that has with respect to it's iphone app.

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jul 14

By the way robert either everybody on this blog needs to get a life or we can express ourselves any way we chose.

marhossain commented Wednesday, Jul 14

What in God's name does "soon" mean to you people at Skype? If you can't keep up with a schedule and provide like you say you can, then don't block guys like Fring who actually can do the sh** you can't, dang. You can pack a billion and one things into a PC/Mac program that's more like a portable telemarketing for PC rather than an IM service, but you can't update your own damn software to, forget using the front camera on iPhone 4 to make video calls, but to even support MULTITASKING and iOS 4?! 90% of the people on this page, including me, who have nearly no technical experience could figure this out at the rate you bigshot developers are. Ridiculous.

Peter Parkes commented Wednesday, Jul 14

@hector_alatorre no additional information to provide at the moment – stay tuned!

basti-hirnbix commented Wednesday, Jul 14

You have got to be kidding me...
I know what this is: Skype via 3G will not be free all of the time, I think they said "Until August" or something like that.
So they simply wait until then and then they release the freakin update.
This way they can make money and until then most of the people wont use Skype via 3G since it does not really make sense without multitasking.

Next time do NOT show off at a keynote and talk about features that you obviously are not capable of implementing FAST enough.
This really is just a laughing stock, nothing more...

i_levit commented Wednesday, Jul 14

@robertrventurini Paying customers have a right to complain and have their concerns addressed. That's customer service 101.

leandro.borges.marinho commented Wednesday, Jul 14

Skype it's perfect. But now I have an Android DROID (Milestone in Brazil) and there is no skype, even the android topics has a topic. How about us? When will I be able to use this amazing software in this amazing OS, here in Brazil?

robertrventurini commented Wednesday, Jul 14

@i_levit customers may have a right to complain, and complain you should; there is a difference between filing a complaint and continuous asinine comments that solve nothing.

@hypnosmd you can rationalize your posts anyway you would like, but even you are aware that the degree to which you are complaining far exceeds anyone else on this blog. so when I said get a life, it was directed to you only, and no one else. Skype got your message from your initial post, and they will handle it the way they so choose. If you have a problem with their progress then switch to fring or some other service that you claim to be timely with iPhone development. Want to provoke change? quit paying for their service and find someone else.

The monthly service fee costs less than one coffee, do you complain this much over a cup of coffee, if so did you ever stop to think maybe it's frothy because the barista filled it with saliva?

Cheers

robertrventurini commented Wednesday, Jul 14

@i_levit customers may have a right to complain, and complain you should; there is a difference between filing a complaint and continuous asinine comments that solve nothing.

@hypnosmd you can rationalize your posts anyway you would like, but even you are aware that the degree to which you are complaining far exceeds anyone else on this blog. so when I said get a life, it was directed to you only, and no one else. Skype got your message from your initial post, and they will handle it the way they so choose. If you have a problem with their progress then switch to fring or some other service that you claim to be timely with iPhone development. Want to provoke change? quit paying for their service and find someone else.

The monthly service fee costs less than one coffee, do you complain this much over a cup of coffee, if so did you ever stop to think maybe it's frothy because the barista filled it with saliva?

Cheers

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jul 14

My posts are rational. You keep bitching and moaning like i am the only one posting complaints. If you actually read all my posts you would see there is a consistent theme. Skype has a horrible tract record of delays ie..push 3g. You really read all my posts and i need to get a life. What loooooser you are. I bet you would spit in someone's drink you freak.

davidgbrookes commented Thursday, Jul 15

You would have to wonder how long Skype can survive as a company with their constant disregard of "talking" to their customers.

Once Skype was the number 1 company as there were few VoIP options. Now with so many options and price structures Skype needs to do more to keep its cutomers. But they don't seem to care or listen.

Skype staff don't forget to switch off the lights when you leave your comfortable jobs and let the door hit you on the way out. Don't think you are going to come back to a job much longer.

annalivia02 commented Thursday, Jul 15

Yet another terminally frustrated user. I get that software development can be tricky. What I dont get is the lack of communication. I worked for a megacorp that was hugely successful and is now in the toilet (and I quit) thanks to much the same problem: overpromising, underdelivering, and failing to communicate. I am looking for an alternative to Skype as of now. I want an application that will keep running in the background. Considering how many other companies have managed this, Im very disappointed in Skype's performance, which completely sucks because I used to love it. Early adopter, evangelist, etc. No longer.

-one more former fan

annalivia02 commented Thursday, Jul 15

...adding a final comment. Since I last posted I downloaded and installed Nimbuzz. It's perfect. The really pathetic part is that Nimbuzz works much like Trillian - it is an application aggregator, which includes....yep. Skype. So I'm using Skype with a Nimbuzz skin on it, and it works perfectly, exactly the way I wish Skype did. Why can't the Skype developers do the same?

stephen.whiteley1 commented Thursday, Jul 15

I don't know why this happens but all the skype chat alternatives like nimbuzz, im+, truphone etc all sign you out of skype after so long BUT other im platforms like msn and google talk don't - even when run through third party clients - why is this, is there a technical reason or is it because skype are a bunch of ******??

dwilban commented Thursday, Jul 15

Shh.... no one mention Nimbuzz again. We don't want to bring them to Skype's attention or they are liable to cut them off just like they did Fring. I am this close to closing out my account too. I'm giving them one more month.

daniel.s.maloney commented Thursday, Jul 15

Came back here for another round of skype bashing, but decided against it. No point.

Skype, you have exactly one week to tell us when the hell is going on with your iOS4 update before I jump ship, and believe me, I'm not coming back. Inept software developers, non-existant PR department, and a management who fails to act on what every day is becoming an increasingly serious blight on the skype brand name. Don't care about your customers? That's fine. Plenty of other VOIP providers out there to choose from.

nathan.knopp commented Friday, Jul 16

Jesus christ everyone! give them some time to figure everything out!! they dont need to end up updating it to ios 4 and having a shitty app like facebook did. give them a chance. im sure theyre working on tons of new features like maybe even video calling with iphone 4. give em some time.

bkunrath commented Friday, Jul 16

Hi Peter,

any chance that this next release will support video calls on my iPhone 4?

Ciao, Bernd

annalivia02 commented Friday, Jul 16

@dwilban: Im afraid it's too late. Nimbuzz has stopped working for skype calling.

aperley commented Friday, Jul 16

@nathan.knopp, @bkunrath,

There is no chance Skype will get video calls in this expected update. Seriously, do you think they will add a new major function while they still have a boatload of gaping holes of missing basic functionality? It's been well over a year since the first version of Skype for iPhone was released, and it still lacks emoticon support; Skype's own custom emoticons come as , and ... A year after mass adoption of push notifications, Skype is the only IM app out there that not only lacks them, but shows no sign that they will ever come. It took them 6 months to enable calls over 3G, after it was officially allowed and everyone else added it to their VoIP apps within a week (and this did not even require any coding - they just were fighting their own greed in deciding when to start charging money for it). Now, it's been almost 3 months after they announced the background VoIP support, over a month since the final iOS 4 version was ready, and they are still "testing" their update. And now you really think they will just, all of a sudden, add video calls? A major feature, much more complex than anything they have accomplished so far with their iPhone app? Give me a break.

If they'll ever add video call functionality to their iPhone app, I'll say it will be in 2-3 years from now. By the time, Apple's FaceTime will be expanded beyond new iPhones to iTouches, iPads, Macs and a bunch of 3rd party gear. And I bet Skype, should they ever add video calls to mobile devices, will make it PAID, not free. Just like Skype-to-Skype calls when using the iPhone app over 3G, just like multi-party video calls they are rolling out in their Windows app. Yes, the iconic free Skype functionality slowly but surely gets not-so-free. And as it does, Skype is slowly turning from an innovative startup into a massive, bloated, greedy and arrogant telco. Guess it's time for us Skype users to jump ship before it's too late!

aperley commented Friday, Jul 16

Funny, even their forum renders their custom emoticons, but their iPhone app still doesn't. Video calls, say you?

aperley commented Friday, Jul 16

I'm curious: since iOS 4.1 update will obviously come out before Skype's update, will Skype use this as a reason to hold their update further for "more testing"? There will be more differences between 4.1 and 4.0 than between the late 4.0 betas and GM. Free idea here for you Skype - just tell us that your background VoIP-capable update will need some further testing for iOS 4.1 compatibility! And then, when iOS 4.2 comes out - even more testing!!! Come on Skype, we'll understand - it's all for our own good, to make sure we get it bug-free!

victor.ortiz-ramos commented Friday, Jul 16

Peter,

I've been an avid user of skype, I am a paying customer, and I've promoted this service to almost all my associates, customers and family. As a business person, I cant believe the lack of information, when you have your most loyal customers, beggin for a valid explanation on what happened with this "soon to be released" update that never was.

I will have to say that, either Skype is not prepared to deal with this situation or the PR department has no clue on crisis management. Eventually your customer base will be dissapointed, and wil seek new alternatives.

bammasta commented Friday, Jul 16

Anyone else notice skypes no longer in the app store? Update being posted perhaps?

aperley commented Friday, Jul 16

Apps don't disappear from the App Store when updates are being posted. Maybe it's Apple's revenge for tarnishing their reputation by failing to deliver a product promised during Apple's conference?

aperley commented Friday, Jul 16

BTW, any mention of iPhone is gone from Skype's website - it's all about Verizon now. Which kinda' dismisses the idea that it might be an App Store glitch.

aperley commented Friday, Jul 16

Correction: it's still there but is now under "Other mobile solutions", along with the dumbphones. The only platforms that now officially support Skype Mobile (tm) are Andriod (Verizon) and BlackBerry (Verizon).

annalivia02 commented Friday, Jul 16

*is* there a workable alternative for Skype?

hypnosmd commented Friday, Jul 16

apparently the old skype is MIA after they submitted their latest update to ios4. This is according to tech crunch.They are working on it?

chriswestmoreland commented Friday, Jul 16

Please let it have support for FaceTime for iPhone 4 - skype calls. That would be awesome!!

nightvisiongear commented Friday, Jul 16

Skype was missing from the app store earlier on, but it is back up on it now.it would make you wonder what is going on behind the scenes now, wouldn't it ?

davidgbrookes commented Saturday, Jul 17

Well it looks like they submitted an app for iOS4 and it was rejected http://techcrunch.com/2010/07/16/skype-iphone/ . So now we will get the Skype spin, “we tried but Apple blocked us”.

Another black mark against Skype for putting in a failed app.

smwajih commented Saturday, Jul 17

Any kind of timeline from Skype to provide its user with an update to when they are going to release their software that will support ios4 instead of saying coming soon. Can you please let us know the month that when to expect the new software.

mikewynn2 commented Saturday, Jul 17

Skype is for video so bring video to iphone, its that easy. sad other companies are beating you to it.

why so slow skype? take your time?

mikewynn2 commented Saturday, Jul 17

Skype is for video so bring video to iphone, its that easy. sad other companies are beating you to it.

why so slow skype? take your time?

andreasliland commented Saturday, Jul 17

@Peter Parkes
I have one word for the time it takes to get the OS4 version ready:

Zzzzzzzzz

eran_moskovitz commented Saturday, Jul 17

wow no one really expected it to take this long,
Your product is brilliant and your reputation comes with it, but people are losing it so don't lose them!
Looking forward for an ios 4 update this week hopefully.

lucabenfo commented Saturday, Jul 17

COME ON GUYS!!!!!!!!

Sent from my iPhone4

dpamodt commented Sunday, Jul 18

@davidgbrookes it wasn't rejected by apple, just had bugs in the program per the TC article. hopefully will fix and resubmit soon. c'mon skype

jeffvidal commented Sunday, Jul 18

I think it's now time for the skype team to communicate. Seriously.

peykanash commented Sunday, Jul 18

@jeffvidal lets just hope they dont use Skype to communicate !!!

hennyjoosten commented Monday, Jul 19

Where's Skype for Android Europe?????

florentin.wilfart commented Monday, Jul 19

*lol* you guys messed it up so badly by showcasing and not delivering, that fring gains so many customers of yours in weeks that they had bandwidth trouble on their servers! Because fring works as perfect as it always did providing textpush, call push and multitasking! They even support my sip client, google talk msn icq and aol, Skype app is gone for ever from my iPhone now.

qasirfarooq commented Monday, Jul 19

just tell us when you going to release ios 4 update

dom.r.evans commented Monday, Jul 19

Complete joke.

costanzo98031 commented Monday, Jul 19

Open Letter to Skype:

Please replace David Ponsford. I am frustrated that he cannot lead his team to release updates frequently. It's obvious he is unable meet customer expectations. A lot of customers have been sitting idle waiting for some information about the iPhone ; unfortunately, Skype has not be forthcoming. The best they can do is state - coming soon! We saw this back with the 3G update was promised and now again with iOS4.

In my opinion, David has done a poor job managing customer expectations. As it is, customers feel ignored and when we see hundreds of posts with no follow up we wonder if our feedback is seen as any value. Maybe we should start directing this feedback to Josh Silverman via twitter, @JoshatSkype? Maybe we will get some indication from him when an iOS4 update will be out rather then Peter Parks?

There is no real alternative to Skype; however, some developers are producing wonderful apps that seem to be filling in gaps where Skype is failing. For example, Fring produced an application that worked on Android phones. It's disappointing to learn that they were blocked by Skype. I am sure hundreds of their customers made requests for Skype to run under the Android platform; yet, Skype fails to address this need. Fring was out there meeting the need until Skype threaten them with legal action.

I sure hope Skype is reading what is going on around their ecosystem... For example, I just read the following news today:

Wall Street Journal's App Watch: Pinger Moves From Free Text To Free Calls
Blog article at http://ow.ly/2dwqs

It will be interesting to see how the landscape of voip calling changes in the months to come. As developers continue to come out with exciting VOIP apps, this sure will only lead to a win-win for customers.

aperley commented Monday, Jul 19

I fully agree with costanzo98031's post. Not only did Skype fail to deliver, they also failed to communicate with their customer base.

hector_alatorre commented Monday, Jul 19

Hello Peter, thanks for your response.

I don't want to loose my hope, that skype will be truly functional on iOS4 (multitasking) and maybe (as a plus) the videoconferencing on iPhone 4, your application is good, multiplatform and user friendly, can't give my opinion about other apps out there.

As you can see, there are many frustrated users, that in one way or another trying to be heard, in my personal opinion I think the bigger problem is not, not having the application ready, the biggest problem is having no communication from you, I think this is harming Skype's image in the market.

Can you provide further information about your new version for iOS 4 please? (like dates when it will be ready, or the current status)

Thanks

jonathan.ross commented Tuesday, Jul 20

I have been looking at this page daily since the 21st of June. I love Skype, and was very excited by the demo you gave a couple of months back. All I can say now, is that my patience is wearing very thin indeed. It reeks of a waterfall project gone bad.

Why can you not just simply tell us all why it is taking so long? Your silence is achieving nothing other than alienating your loyal customers.

zroytman commented Tuesday, Jul 20

Please, any further information about the Skype upgrade for iOS4...
Thanks.

Peter Parkes commented Tuesday, Jul 20

@costanzo98031 just to reassure you – we read every single comment posted here (and as many as we can from elsewhere on the web). When we have something concrete to say, we do so; unfortunately, we don’t have any additional information to share about the iPhone app at the moment.

standpointpa commented Tuesday, Jul 20

I finally logged in here to see what the problem is with the iOS4 version. All this time, I thought I was doing something wrong, had my prefs set improperly, etc. It didn't occur to me that the update for Skype simply wasn't out yet. Wow.

aperley commented Tuesday, Jul 20

The fact that Skype officially has nothing to say about the iOS 4 update for their iPhone app clearly indicates that, if we shall ever see this update at all, it will not happen anytime soon.

It's just pathetic to see Skype taking enormous amount of time trying to implement a feature that they themselves boasted to be possible by adding a few lines of code. Apple has done all the groundwork for Skype by creating a set of API's; Apple gave Skype a priority over the rest of the pack by giving them the earliest access to the new SDK betas; and yet the rest of the pack has managed to implement the feature by now, but Skype hasn't. Impressive.

astroid2228 commented Tuesday, Jul 20

Hi Peter,

I can understand the long wait to be the work of exhaustive testing on a new video calling feature on skype. After all skype has a huge user base and want to ensure that customers have the highest quality product.

But I don't understand why skype hasn't calmed the nerves of thousands of frustrated iPhone users by at the very least releasing an interim update with just the basic iOS features implemented such as backgrounding and retina display graphics.

I am sure everyone agrees that frequent smaller updates are better than less frequent big updates. This combined with letting users know that you are working on making the video on the iphone the highest quality experience would be a great PR move.

Thanks,
Cy

enygma3d commented Tuesday, Jul 20

"I am sure everyone agrees that frequent smaller updates are better than less frequent big updates. This combined with letting users know that you are working on making the video on the iphone the highest quality experience would be a great PR mov"

Agreed. I find one of the main issues with some companies, especially ones where the developers are running the project management cycle, is a product is never finished. It is always, "Oh, but there's this feature we have to include", then as that feature is almost implemented, "oh, we gotta add this feature!" and so on and so forth. There is the assumption that each version update has to include major changes to justify an update.

Personally, if they froze Skype's current feature list and only focused on multitasking support for iOS 4, I'd be more than happy with that since multitasking is a significant feature enhancement, given iPhone has been able to multitask between voice and other apps since day 1.

I don't know if these constant feature additions are the cause of delays in the release or not, but I can tell you right now, if that is the case, I don't have to point much further than 3D Realms as an example of a company that failed for that reason. If this is the case, Skype is pissing off a lot of customers for this reason. The worry then becomes that iPhone 5 is released before Skype fully supports iPhone and iOS 4.

I'm personally getting worried as to whether I should hold my breath or not on the ability to use my iPad at my desk to talk to people on Skype while taking notes in Pages or something. The next generation iPad may be released before that happens at this rate.

aperley commented Wednesday, Jul 21

Unbelievable!

It's out!

Background VoIP, push IM's and hi-res graphics for Retina display are included. I've never been so happy about being wrong in my earlier assertions!

Now on to testing this thing.

jdgrabowski commented Wednesday, Jul 21

It's an improvement to finally have it out, but no video calling

hypnosmd commented Wednesday, Jul 21

Strong work. congrats. I do not know if it is on my end can we have VM push notification and control the number of rings for vm pick up. otherwise working well. thanks

marhossain commented Wednesday, Jul 21

By "soon" they clearly meant exactly a month, but that's forgivable now with finally multitasking. Good job, fellas...how's the video calling coming though? If it's gonna take another month, unblock Fring - we'll all come scrambling back to the official Skype app for video calling once y'all get it figured out...but don't leave us hanging until then. Fring for a month!

booshtukka commented Wednesday, Jul 21

I'm glad this is out, but guys, your grasp of Social Networking and the expectations of today's users is really pathetic. You've released it – it took you ages – 400 comments exist here from people who want to know what's going on… Where do I hear about it? macrumors.com! WTF? Where is your blog entry? The email? When you have people desperate for information, and it is SO EASY to give it to them, why would you hold back on that? Why would you avoid happy customers? It beggars belief.

I'm assuming someone up high refused to let anyone give out information. That person needs a slap round the face to knock them into 2010. Transparency – that's the new web. That's what people want. Sort it out, Skype.

smwajih commented Wednesday, Jul 21

Its here no way Thank you Skype for ios4 upgrade you guys are the best.

daniel.s.maloney commented Wednesday, Jul 21

It's out? Well geez. "Happy" isn't the word, more like "relieved." Finally skype is taking some real action.

Now fix your damn development cycle so this doesn't happen again.

xwaredx commented Wednesday, Jul 21

Glad to see the update today. I was slightly disappointed that there was no video, as that was one of my primary reasons for purchasing the iPhone 4, but still happy overall. Peter, I noticed a few people asked, but have not seen a response to the question: are video calls from the iPhone to other Skype clients (PC etc.) something that Skype is working towards within the next few weeks or months, or will it be some time before that type of technology is released?

On a side note, I was curious if there is a public beta testing group? As a software developer and personal user of Skype, I would be interested in how to sign up.

Thanks,
Matt

eymansf commented Thursday, Jul 22

Haha. Wow. I’ve never read so many rude comments all in one place by so many entitled people hiding behind their computers. Thanks for the update Skype.

peykanash commented Thursday, Jul 22

here is my review video for Skype multitask ready updated app on iOS 4 running on my iPod Touch 3rd gen 32 gig :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjwCsKVU8vo

zroytman commented Thursday, Jul 22

Skype's developers, thank you very much for the update!!!
Perfect work!

jockcros commented Thursday, Jul 22

Well, I'm not happy with the new version at this stage. After 3-4 hours with Skype multitasking in the background, my battery level has dropped to below 40% (more than 80% prior to starting Skype). We need an urgent option to be able to turn multitasking off! I kinow I can kill it off in the multitasking bar but I suspect many users won't even know it's there and will get home to find their batteries are flat.

voxeojohn commented Thursday, Jul 22

ok, the multitasking Skype sucks... There needs to be a way to turn off notifications, or at least filter them. We used Skype chats at work and I am getting hammered now, Ideally I would only want to get notified when someone calls me.... thoughts?

John

cockakadis commented Thursday, Jul 22

where can i download the skype app for my android phone?

belgiummahieuphilippe commented Thursday, Jul 22

Please make us a great skype version for Android. Please !

anto290578 commented Thursday, Jul 22

The new release works like it should but unfortunately, when running in bg on my 3GS, it kills the battery! Why? I've tested other apps like Nimbuzz working in bg and they don't have such a problem. I'm sure that with an update you can fix this problem, so... at work!!!!

reiko.schmidt commented Friday, Dec 3

Hello Skype Team!
When do you enable Video Skype Calls on iPhone4?
I hope, before Christmas 2010.

jcarreras56 commented Monday, Dec 6

great!! does it include video call for iphone 4?? it would be the funniest

zipzipboopityboop commented Thursday, Dec 9

Why do you ALL complain about the service of an App which is FREE? I mean, come on seriously... You are complaining about the time it takes for Skype to release something; you complain about it like it is a governmental promise.

So what if they are having issues about releasing on time? So what if they have the IOS4 update a week before the public, so what if they haven't updated it on time? YOU are the people who are waiting for it; so you just have to wait... Don't complain like little girls, it's not like all of you are paying for the service anyway... I know i'm not.

Also, to mention this, I think if you don't like the service Skype provides, don't use Skype, simple as that really, I mean, it's not like someone is holding a gun to your head and making you use it, are they?

Sheesh people, wait like everyone else, I use the iPod Touch 3rd Gen with a Mic headset and I've had NO issues with mine working fully; guess you lot on the iPhone 4 are just so damn impatient, and also so happy about showing off your latest gadgets that you are forgetting that New doesn't always mean Better.

Idiots. Don't complain about the services here, Skype should take as long as they need, after all, they are working to get a release FREE for you people, so don't cry like small children when they don't deliver on time, it's not like it's killing you...

dartthrower commented Thursday, Dec 16

Skype - video on the iPhone4 = Fail. Will it EVER happen? At this point I am near deleting the app since I have no use for it without video chat. So many other apps have made it happen why can't you?

spinwinds commented Sunday, Jan 16

@zipzipboopityboop

Get your head out of the sand. Not everyone calls computer-to-computer or iPhone, etc. A lot of people pay for Skype service, namely to and from land lines and cell phones. How do you think Skype stays in business if it was all "free"? And since Skype service doesn't work without Skype software, buggy software means we're not getting the service we paid for. So shut your yap.

Skype, fix your damn software so it doesn't log out within a few minutes then need 60 seconds to log back in when I relaunch the app. You claimed that iOS 4 would let it run in the background. Quitting in the background is not running in the background. I've given up hope that an incoming call will actually ring.

The Big Blog

Everything new at Skype’s HQ

Skype for iPhone: Update for iOS 4 coming soon

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