The Big Blog

#SkypeTalks Session with Skype for Android Product Marketing Manager This Thursday

Have questions about Skype for Android? We may have the answer for you!

We are very excited to announce our second #SkypeTalks session on Twitter with Divisha Chandna, Skype for Android Product Marketing Manager this Thursday, December 15 at 6 PM GMT/1 PM EST/10 AM PST.

To participate, tweet your Skype for Android questions at @Skype and Divisha will answer them live. Make sure to use the hashtag #SkypeTalks so everyone can follow the conversation.

Don't have a Twitter account? Don't fret: the #SkypeTalks session will also be happening simultaneously on the Skype Support Network, so you can post your questions and follow the discussion there as well.

We hope to hear from you then!

Skype 2.6 for Android: Send photos and videos - just in time for the holidays!

Today we are thrilled to announce the new version of Skype for Android. With Skype 2.6 for Android, you can send photos and videos to friends or family from Skype on your Android device. It's now even easier to share those special moments with your loved ones or send files and view documents on the go while on a business trip. And it's free and works over WiFi or 3G on a mobile data plan.*

As well as bringing you photo, video and file sending, we've also improved battery life and video quality with Skype 2.6 for Android on devices using NVIDIA's Tegra 2 chipset, which include amongst others; the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, Motorola XOOM and Acer Iconia Tablet. Now you can take full advantage of the big screen with better video quality than ever before.

We are also working hard to extend the list of whitelisted devices for video support. These handsets have been tested by Skype's Engineering Team to ensure the best possible video experience. Latest additions include the HTC Amaze 4G and Motorola DROID RAZR. In general, almost anyone with an Android device running Android 2.2 (Froyo) or above can try out Skype video calling for free*. We'll let you know if you can turn on video calling when you first start up Skype on a non whitelisted handset.

We're excited about these new enhancements, adding even more value to the things you can already do on Skype for Android like video calling, sending and receiving instant messages for free or making phone calls to mobiles and landlines worldwide at great Skype rates. We've brought this out just in time for the upcoming holiday season, so you can share your special moments with your loved ones.

Download Skype 2.6 for Android from the Android Market or simply scan the QR code below.

If you would like to discuss this new release or have any questions, please feel free to visit our new Skype Support Network or join the #SkypeTalks session with our Skype for Android product team on Thursday, December 15 at 6 PM GMT/1 PM EST/10 AM PST.

To participate tweet your Skype for Android questions at @Skype or @SkypeAndroid and make sure to use the hashtag #SkypeTalks. Don't have a Twitter account? Don't fret: the #SkypeTalks session will also be happening simultaneously on the Skype Support Network.

*we recommend an unlimited data plan. Additional data charges may apply.

Skype 2.5 for Android adds more supported handsets and enhanced video experience

Today we are pleased to announce that with Skype 2.5 for Android, we are whitelisting video support for an additional 14 Android devices. This brings the total number of white listed devices for video calling to an exciting 41. Now Skype video calling will also be available by default on several Motorola Devices including the Atrix or Xoom. Download the updated Skype for Android app from the Android Market or Skype.com/m using your Android phone's browser or just scan the QR code below.

With Skype 2.5 for Android, the list of Android devices we've added Skype video support for include:

• Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1


• HTC Nexus One


• HTC EVO 3D


• Sony Ericsson Xperia Live with Walkman


• Sony Ericsson Xperia neo V


• LG Optimus Black


• LG Optimus 3D


• LG Optimus 2x


• Motorola Photon


• Motorola Droid 3


• Motorola Bionic


• Motorola Xoom


• Motorola Atrix


• Acer Iconia

For a full list of supported devices for video calling, please visit Android Market.

The Skype 2.5 for Android update also brings you further video enhancements. You can now switch between portrait and landscape mode during video calls, and zoom in with a simple double tap on the screen.

We also improved support for bluetooth headsets and included a number of bug fixes and performance enhancements, which should further boost the user experience of Skype for Android on your phone.

In addition, as with our recent Mac and iOS update, there will be an advertising platform introduced in this new release. Advertising will not be shown to users that have Skype Credit, a Calling or Skype Premium subscription.

If you want to discuss this new release or have any questions, please feel free to visit our new Skype Support Network. We hope you enjoy the update!

Skype 2.1 for Android enables video on majority of Android devices

We promised to add support for additional handsets when we launched our new Skype for Android app with video a couple of weeks ago. Today we are pleased to announce that with the release of Skype 2.1 for Android, we are rolling out video support for an additional 17 of the most popular Android devices. Download the updated Skype for Android app from the Android Market or Skype.com/m using your Android phone's browser or just scan the QR code below.

The list of Android devices we've added Skype video support for include:

• Acer A5


• HTC Desire (2.2)


• HTC Desire HD


• HTC Evo 3D


• HTC Evo 4G


• HTC Flyer


• HTC Incredible S


• HTC Sensation


• HTC Thunderbolt - Verizon (2.2) (US only)


• LG Revolution - Verizon (2.2) (US only)


• Samsung Droid Charge - Verizon (2.2) (US only)


• Samsung Galaxy S


• Samsung Galaxy S II


• Samsung Galaxy Tab


• Sony Ericsson Xperia mini pro


• Sony Ericsson Xperia PLAY


• Sony Ericsson Xperia ray

Is your device not on the list? No need to worry...

For those of you using Android 2.2 (Froyo) and above, you should still be able to enable video calling in your Skype settings. Just go to "Skype settings" after launching the app and select "enable video calling".

Unfortunately, if you cannot see the video calling settings, it means your Android phone does not meet the minimum requirements needed to make Skype video calls. Please be aware that video call quality may not be as good as on a certified Android device and only the back camera of the device will work if your device is running on Android 2.2 (Froyo).

In addition, the Skype 2.1 for Android update includes a number of bug fixes and performance enhancements, which should further boost the user experience of Skype for Android on your phone.

We are really excited that video calling with Skype for Android with video calling is now available on the majority of Android handsets, so you can easily share moments wherever you are with the people that matter most to you.

Smile! Skype for Android with video is here

We are excited to announce that you can now make video calls with the Skype for Android app and share the moments that matter most to you wherever you are.

Skype for Android with video calling works over both Wi-Fi and 3G connections*. Download the Skype app from the Android Market, visit Skype.com/m using your phone's browser or scan the QR code below.

With the new app, you can:

• Make and receive free Skype one-to-one video calls to other Skype users on the iPhone, Mac, Windows PCs, other Android phones and even TVs**


• Make great value calls to landlines and mobiles around the world


• Send SMS messages to friends and family anywhere in the world from your Android device at great Skype rates.

All this comes with a complete redesign of the Skype for Android user interface. There's a new main menu on the Skype app for Android where you can navigate easily through your contacts, access your Skype profile to change personal details, use the dial pad to make calls, see the balance of your Skype Credit and, of course, make video calls. But that's not all. A new mood message box at the top of the Skype app menu makes it easier than ever to share how you are feeling, what you've seen or what you're up to.

To enjoy 2-way video calling on your Android device, it must be running Android Version 2.3 and above with a front-facing camera. Supported handsets right now that allow video calling include the HTC Desire S, Sony Ericsson Xperia neo, Sony Ericsson Xperia pro and the Google Nexus S. We are sorry if your device currently does not support video for the Skype for Android app. But, rest assured, we plan to roll out support for more Android handsets very soon.

Update: The Android Market download page is taking some time to update, so please be patient and try again if you are still seeing the page which shows the older version of our app.

*Additional data charges may apply.
** iPhone and iPod Touch (4th gen) with iOS4 or higher, Skype for Windows version 4.2 and above, Skype for Mac OS X version 5.0 and above.

Skype mobile now available on more Verizon devices

Do you want to take advantage of Skype mobile™ on your Verizon device, but not sure if it's available? Great news; you can now get Skype mobile™ on the Droid X2, Samsung Gem, CASIO G'zOne Commando and the Droid Incredible 2.

The Skype mobile™ app allows you to make free Skype-to-Skype voice calls and instant messages. Just as exciting, users can make low cost calls to landlines and mobile phone internationally for as low as 2.3c/minute.

Here is how charging works:

Skype-to-Skype calls, to or from your mobile, computer or TV
These calls are completely free*. They don't count towards your Verizon Wireless minutes allowance.

Calls to another mobile number or landline number in the US
These calls count towards your Verizon Wireless minutes.

Calls to an international mobile number or landline number
These calls are great value - pay for these using Skype Credit or one of our subscriptions. For example, you can make unlimited calls† to landlines in the United Kingdom for just $6.99/month.

All calls run on the largest and most reliable wireless network in the US, which helps to make sure that call quality is top-notch, and lets you use your favorite accessories, including Bluetooth headsets.

To get Skype on your Droid X2, Samsung Gem, CASIO G'zOne Commando or Droid Incredible 2, visit m.skype.com on your phone or scan this QR code to download it.

For more information, visit www.skype.com/go/skypemobile.

* You'll need a data plan in order to use Skype mobile on your Verizon Wireless phone.
† A fair use policy applies to unlimited subscriptions.

Calling over 3G on Skype for Android enabled in the U.S.

We've enabled calling over 3G on Skype for Android in the U.S., making it easier to stay in touch with friends, family and colleagues. To take advantage of this, just download the latest version of Skype to your Android device by visiting the Android Market or scanning the QR code below.

Skype for Android lets you talk for free with Skype-to-Skype calls, and send and receive instant messages no matter where you are. You can connect using 3G or a WiFi connection, and it's free to download and easy to use - so if you haven't used it before, give it a try today.

If your friends aren't on Skype, simply dial their number from your contact list in Skype and pay for the call with Skype Credit, or talk unlimited with a subscription.

Coming soon: video calls on your Verizon Wireless 4G LTE device with Skype mobile

We’re happy to announce that video calling will soon be available with Skype mobile on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network.

This new version of Skype mobile from Verizon Wireless will be deeply integrated into a wide range of 4G smartphones, including the HTC ThunderBolt, which will to be available by mid-2011. With front- and rear-facing cameras, these Android-based 4G LTE smartphones will make it simple for you to make Skype-to-Skype video calls over Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE network.

Of course, you’ll also be able to use it to make free Skype-to-Skype calls and chat, as well as call friends and family abroad at our super-low rates.

To be the first to know when it’s available, sign up for a reminder on the Skype website.

Skype for Android now works on Samsung Galaxy S and can be stored on SD card

We’ve just updated our Android app – you can now:

• Use the app on your Samsung Galaxy S, as long as it’s running Android OS 2.2 or later. You can find out how to update your phone on the Samsung website.
• Store the app on your phone’s SD card if it’s running Android OS 2.2 or later.

If you store the app on your SD card, the data Skype uses while the app is running is still stored on the internal memory of your phone. We expect this to take up around 15MB of space for most people.

To get the update, head to skype.com/m on your phone, or scan the QR code below.

Skype now available for Android phones

Skype for Android has been updated to work on the Samsung Galaxy S too.

You’ve been asking us for it – and now it’s here. Skype is now available on a wide range of Android phones, so you can save money and stay in touch when you’re out and about. Visit skype.com/m on your phone to download, or read on to find out what’s inside.

With the new app, you can make free Skype-to-Skype calls, and send and receive IMs for free, one-to-one or with a group. You can also call phones at Skype’s great rates – over WiFi or 3G.

To make calls to phones abroad, simply dial the number in Skype and pay with Skype Credit – or make unlimited calls with a subscription. When you’re abroad, we recommend that you connect to a WiFi zone for best value.

If you already use Skype on a computer, you'll see your full contact list when you sign in to Skype on your Android phone. If not, you can set up an account and be ready to go in minutes.

Product Manager Mark Douglas explains how the app works.

You can download Skype from the Android Market, or from skype.com/m on your phone. You’ll need Android OS 2.1 or later – check Settings > About if you’re not sure what version your phone is running.

Skype is not available in the Android Market in China or Japan.
Skype has been tested on HTC and Motorola devices with Android OS 2.1 and above. It may work on other Android phones, but we can’t guarantee full functionality or compatibility. We’re aware of some problems with the Samsung Galaxy S, and we’re looking to address these in the future.
It’s free to use Skype in a WiFi zone. If you use Skype with a mobile data connection, operator charges may apply, so we recommend an unlimited data plan.
In the US, you can make calls only over WiFi.
A fair use policy applies to unlimited subscriptions.

Improvements to Skype mobile for DROID and BlackBerry phones on Verizon Wireless

We’ve updated our app for DROID and BlackBerry phones on Verizon Wireless with a number of improvements, including:

• Incoming caller ID, so you’ll be able to see your Skype contacts’ names when they call you
• Copy and paste support in IM conversations
• Emoticon support in IM conversations
• You can now see country names and flags when dialling international numbers
• You can automatically set your location as your mood message

On DROID phones, you can now use the app while WiFi is switched on, which will make the app more convenient to use. Note that calls and IMs are still carried over the Verizon Wireless network.

To get the update, just visit www.skype.com/m from your device to download it.

The Skype mobile app for Verizon Wireless lets you make free calls* to friends and family on Skype, great value calls to landlines and mobile phones overseas, and send IMs to people on Skype anywhere in the world. Our friends at Verizon Wireless have made this video which explains how it all works.

Here’s how charging works:

Skype-to-Skype calls, to or from your mobile, computer or TV

These calls are completely free*. They don’t count towards your Verizon Wireless minutes allowance.

Calls to another mobile number or landline number in the US

These calls count towards your Verizon Wireless minutes.

Calls to an international mobile number or landline number

These calls are great value – pay for these using Skype Credit or one of our subscriptions. For example, you can make unlimited calls† to landlines in Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey for just $6.99 per month.

All calls run on the largest and most reliable wireless network in the US, which helps to make sure that call quality is top-notch, and lets you use your favorite accessories, including Bluetooth headsets.

Additionally, as the app runs in the background, you’ll never miss a call.

Don’t forget that Skype mobile is also available on the LG enV TOUCH, LG Chocolate Touch and Samsung Reality on Verizon Wireless – find out more.

* You'll need a data plan in order to use Skype mobile on your Verizon Wireless phone.
† A fair use policy applies to unlimited subscriptions.