The Big Blog

Skype for Windows Phone Has Arrived

Following the recent availability of the Skype for Windows Phone Beta app announced at Mobile World Congress, today we are releasing an official version of the Skype for Windows Phone app, which is now available in the Windows Phone Marketplace. You can also get the app directly from your Windows Phone.*

With Skype on your Windows Phone, you can join the thriving community of 200 million people using Skype every month across almost any screen: smartphones & tablets (running Android, iOS, and Symbian), computers & laptops (Mac, Windows) and connected TVs.

Check out this video to see how the app works:

Available for use on 4G, 3G and WiFi** networks, Skype for Windows Phone helps you connect with friends and family instantly with free voice and video calls*** everywhere you go. Make affordable calls to landlines and mobiles using Skype Credit, create and hold one-to-one and group chats (even while in the middle of a call), and update your profile and account information, among others features.

Since releasing the initial beta app in February, we have received very positive and helpful feedback that has allowed us to improve the app. Additionally, we have added some new features including video calling in portrait mode and friend management capabilities including invite, accept invitations, block, and unblock contacts.

Skype for Windows Phone is also now available in 18 languages: English, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, European Portuguese, Brazilian Portuguese, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Swedish, and Traditional Chinese. You can download Skype for Windows Phone free of charge**** directly from your Windows Phone, or by simply scanning the QR code or the Microsoft Tag below. You will need to have a smartphone running Windows Phone 7.5 ("Mango") or above. You can check what version of Windows Phone your phone is running from Settings > About.

We have also tested and certified the following Windows Phone to help ensure the best performance:

• Nokia Lumia 710
• Nokia Lumia 800
• Nokia Lumia 900
• HTC Titan
• HTC Radar
• Samsung Focus S
• Samsung Focus Flash

This is the first of many releases to come for Windows Phone, so stay tuned for even more capabilities in the future. We believe in the great potential of the Windows Phone platform and will continue to invest over time to enable experiences unmatched by any other app in the market.

Please continue to share your thoughts and questions via our Skype Support Network for Skype for Windows Phone or tweet to us at @Skype. And as always, thanks for using Skype.

* It may take up to 48 hrs for the app to propagate in all local Windows Phone Marketplaces.
** Consumers can place calls with their Windows Phone over a cellular data connection or WiFi network. Additional data charges may apply. To get the best quality video calling, Skype recommends a strong WiFi connection. Skype-to-Skype calling on Windows Phone is compatible with Skype for Windows 4.2 and above, Skype for Mac OS X 5.0 and above, Skype for Linux, Skype for iOS 3.0 and above, Skype for Android 2.0 and above, and Skype running on TVs.
*** The device must be equipped with at least one camera to utilize video calling.
**** The Skype for Windows Phone app is free. If you use your mobile data connection to download the Skype app, operator charges may apply, so we recommend an unlimited data plan.

Make sure you get the most out of the Skype for Windows Phone Beta app!

Thanks to everyone for the warm reception you gave the new Skype for Windows Phone Beta app*. Since it first became available yesterday, many of you have downloaded it to test and have shared your first impressions with us.

We wanted to take this opportunity to share a few tips to ensure you get the best performance from the new app. First, check the certified devices list to make sure your Windows Phone is supported. Below are a few tips and tricks to enjoy the best experience when connecting with your friends, family and colleagues:

• Pin Skype to start: make Skype quick and easy to launch. From the Windows Phone start screen, swipe to the application list, locate Skype, and press and hold. Select pin to start.

• Windows Phone Metro User Interface: delivers a clean and consistent experience on all Windows Phone 7.5 devices, making it simple and easy to navigate through the applications and get to the Skype tile to get started.

• Contacts: once logged into Skype, you will notice that you can quickly find your contacts. Just tap a letter to bring up the jump list and select the contact you want to connect with. If you want more information about the contact, just swipe to the side of the panorama display to see the contact's full profile page.

• Make free audio and video calls** to your Skype contacts over 3G and 4G or WiFi***. Please make sure, when video calling, to use the landscape mode so you can fully enjoy the quality and full screen display.

• Remember you can send and receive instant messages during a call, so you won't miss any messages while talking. Messages will pop up directly and you can answer them by swiping to the next screen. Returning to the initial screen is as easy as swiping back again.

• Start a group chat: In addition to sending instant messages to a single person, you can also set up chats for a group of people. This can be very useful to share ideas with a group of co-workers while on the go, or to chat about the last party you went to with your friends. From the app bar on the recent messages list, press the + and start adding contacts.

• All the Skype emoticons you know and love can be found in Skype for Windows Phone Beta. Use them to liven up your messages and chats.

• Keep your profile updated: share more information on what you are doing, where you are and how you feel by changing your profile picture and mood message directly from the app. You can also check all your relevant Skype account information on the Profile tab.

• Finally, make affordable calls to landlines and mobiles to those contacts that are not on Skype using Skype Credit. Simply select the dialpad from the main app bar.

The Skype for Windows Phone Beta marks the beginning of a new experience that will improve in the future. Your feedback is critical for us to continue our development work to make sure you can experience all the Skype potential on your Windows Phone.

If you haven't yet tried the Skype for Windows Phone Beta we encourage you to download it by clicking here directly from your Windows Phone or PC.

Follow us on Twitter @Skype and look for #SkypeMWC12 hashtag for more information on the Skype for Windows Phone Beta.

*The beta version of the Skype for Windows Phone app will have English language support only.
**The device must be equipped with at least one camera to utilize video calling.
*** Users can place calls with their Windows Phone over a cellular data connection or WiFi network. Additional data charges may apply. To get the best quality video calling, Skype recommends a strong WiFi connection. Skype-to-Skype calling on Windows Phone is compatible with Skype for Windows 4.2 and above, Skype for Mac OS X 2.8 and above, Skype for Linux, Skype for iOS 3.0 and above, Skype for Android 2.0 and above, and Skype running on TVs.
**** The Skype for Windows Phone Beta app is free. If you use your mobile data connection to download the Skype app, operator charges may apply, so we recommend an unlimited data plan.

Skype WiFi - now available on iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch

Skype WiFi (formerly known as Skype Access) is coming to iOS. We've just launched a new iOS application that's free to download from Apple's App store.

With the new Skype WiFi app, you can go online on your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch (running iOS 4.1 or above with multitasking) at over 1 million WiFi hotspots around the world, including hotels, airports, train stations, convention centres, bars and restaurants. And with Skype Credit you only pay for the minutes you use. So, there's no need to buy an hour or day WiFi voucher if you're only looking to check your email or make a quick Skype call.

Skype WiFi is great for travellers all over the world: It's a must-have app, for your iPhone or iPad whether you're on a business trip or enjoying holidays abroad. Skype WiFi offers you a cost-effective and easy way to get online with an iPod Touch, iPhone or iPad. Paying on a per-minute basis for WiFi Internet access is great when you're abroad as you can avoid data roaming charges when you update Facebook, send a tweet, make a Skype call or upload photos.

WiFi access prices through Skype start from US$ 0.06/4p/€0,05 (inclusive of VAT) per minute* and you will only be charged for the minutes you are connected. There are no limits on the amount of data you can upload or download.

All you need to enjoy Skype WiFi on your iPhone or iPad is a Skype account and some Skype Credit.**

It's easy to get started with Skype WiFi:

• Go to the App Store and download the Skype WiFi app
• Open the Skype WiFi app for iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad
• Sign in with your Skype account details or visit Skype.com to create a new account
• Tap Go Online and you're online!
• Once you've finished, just tap Disconnect

To celebrate the new Skype WiFi app and to give you a chance to try it out, Skype WiFi will be free around the globe from Saturday 20th August 00:00 till Sunday 21st August 23:59 BST for a maximum of 60 minutes***. To enjoy free wireless access, download Skype WiFi on your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch or make sure you have the latest Skype software on your computer. Find yourself a hotspot and connect!

Skype WiFi is made available through WiFi operators around the world. For a complete list of supported hotspots, visit skype.com/go/skypewifi.

***Capped at 4 x 15-min sessions per unique Skype ID.

Skype Now Optimized for your iPad

Since the introduction of Skype for iPhone with video calling on New Year's Eve 2010, we've seen growing demand for a Skype app for the iPad.

The wait is over, as today we launched Skype for iPad now available for download in the iTunes App Store.

Skype for iPad is beautifully designed and optimized for the iPad. It offers the best of both worlds for users who want a larger Skype experience, on-the-go. The large iPad screen is perfect for bringing Skype video calls to life, in either landscape or portrait view, and because it is on the iPad, Skype video calls can be made at the beach, in a car or even lying on a couch.

Not only does Skype for iPad feature an interface that takes advantage of the large screen, but there are a number of additional iPad-optimized features found in this new app, including:

• Two-way video calling.* With Skype video calling available on iPhones, as well as in Skype for Android, Skype for Mac, Skype for Windows, Skype on HDTVs and more - you can connect to over 170 million Skype connected users worldwide**.


• Instant messaging. You can even instant message during a video call on your iPad, with emoticons to personalize your message.


• Simple to view contacts. Contacts are now displayed in a grid on Skype for iPad, showing large avatar photos - making it easy to find your contacts and conversations.


• Easy navigation. Find your recent Skype conversations and history at the touch of a button making searching simple.


• Simple SMS texting. An SMS text message can be sent by simply opening a contact and selecting SEND SMS or by opening the dial pad, typing in the number you wish to SMS and then typing your message.

The new Skype for iPad app also takes full advantage of the iPad 2's dual cameras, allowing users to talk face-to-face with the iPad's front camera or switch to the rear camera to show what they can see. Skype for iPad also allows users to call landlines and mobiles using Skype's great low rates - all a user needs is a little Skype Credit. Skype for iPad works across both 3G*** and Wi-Fi networks and also allows users to make voice and video calls across platforms from their iPad to other Skype users on iPhones, Mac, Windows, HDTVs and more.

* iOS version 4.0 or later required. iPad 1st Generation cannot send video, but can receive video.
**average monthly connected users for the three months ended 30 June 2011.
*** operator data charges may apply

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.

A Victory for Innovators and Consumers: Net Neutrality in the Netherlands

Yesterday in the The Hague, the Dutch Parliament voted for amendments aimed at preventing mobile operators from blocking, or charging extra for, their customers' use of independent applications like Skype on their mobile phones.

To most people, this sounds like a re-statement of common sense: if a consumer purchases a mobile Internet access plan, he or she should be able to decide which content and applications to access, without being arbitrarily hindered or charged twice to access particular content and applications. In the curious world of the European mobile operator, however, this is not common sense at all.

Mobile operators in the Netherlands began blocking and double charging for certain network independent content and apps. The Dutch Economics Minister, Maxime Verhagen, rightly deemed this behaviour intolerable and Parliament struck a significant blow for consumer rights with the passing of the amendments yesterday.

As the groundswell of public and political support for open access to the Internet grows, expect to see governments across Europe fall into line with the Dutch. We - Skype - will continue to press the case for the legal codification of such consumer protections in Brussels and EU Member State capitals. In the meantime, to the Dutch we say "Heel goed gedaan!"

Skype joins forces with TELUS to bring affordable international calling rates to customers in Canada

I'm happy to announce that we've signed an agreement with TELUS, Canada's fastest* coast-to-coast 4G network, to bring Skype's affordable international calling rates to customers across Canada.

We know that you want to take your Skype conversations with you on the go, and this agreement with TELUS will let you get the best possible Skype experience on your smartphone in Canada.

Stay tuned for more information about the great products we'll bring to Canadians with TELUS this summer. You can subscribe to this blog using the links on the right hand side, or follow us on Twitter or Facebook.

*Based on TELUS' tests of data throughput speeds in large Canadian urban centres.

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.

Skype now available on the Palm Pre 2 from Verizon Wireless

We’re working constantly to bring Skype to as many mobile devices as possible, and we’re excited to announce that Skype is now available on the Palm Pre 2 from Verizon Wireless.

With Skype mobile built in, you can 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.

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 Palm Pre 2 from Verizon Wireless, visit skype.com/m on to find out how to get started.

Introducing Skype To Go - a new way to save on calls abroad from any phone

Skype To Go is an exciting new way to call friends, family and colleagues abroad at great Skype rates from any mobile or landline. Yes, that’s right, even your 10-year-old mobile or antique landline phone. You don’t need an Internet connection, and you don’t need to be in a 3G coverage area.

Here’s how the magic works. Let’s say your aunt lives in Australia and you live in New York.

Simply give us your aunt’s number in Australia, and we’ll convert it into a unique Skype To Go number with a New York area code.

Then, all you need to do is call this number from your mobile or landline, and you can talk right away to your aunt in Australia at Skype’s amazing rates.

With Skype To Go, you can use your Skype Credit or subscription and get the same low rates* that you enjoy when you call from Skype on your computer today. Except that there’s nothing to install – it’s a great way to use Skype when you’re away from your computer.

It’s free to set up a Skype To Go number, and you can have up to 9 of them. It only takes a few minutes, so get started now!

For those of you who are already in the know, here’s what’s new. You can now set up a separate number for each person you want to call, and save them directly to your phone’s contact list, meaning that your friends and family are even easier to reach. No more waiting around with voice prompts - the call just goes straight through.

* Local operator charges may apply when calling a Skype To Go number. When using a mobile, inclusive minutes may apply. When using Skype Credit the standard connection fee applies.

Skype coming soon to wi-tribe in Jordan and the Philippines

We’re excited to announce a new marketing partnership with wi-tribe, the mobile broadband subsidiary of Qtel. The agreement will see wi-tribe promote Skype products to its customers in Jordan and the Philippines.

It’s the first partnership of its kind in the Middle East, and will make it easier for people to take advantage of Skype’s great value calling rates, as well as instant messaging and group video calling.

If you’re a wi-tribe customer, look out for a Skype credit voucher coming your way soon!

Announcing our Mobile Partner Program for operators

As Mobile World Congress opens here in Barcelona, we’re pleased to announce our Mobile Partner Program for operators in markets with low 3G broadband penetration. The program aims to bring the Skype experience to over 100 different mobile phones and will enable mobile operators to provide additional benefits to customers like you in a competitive market environment.

This program follows the successful operator partnerships that we’ve already launched with Verizon, KDDI and Hutchison 3, and adopts a simplified model which can be rolled out quickly and easily.

The program utilises a purpose built client/server solution developed specifically for mobile operators, which allows the distribution of Skype on a broad range of handsets, including what we call ‘feature phones’ as well as smartphones. The versions of Skype delivered through this program are optimised for efficient bandwidth usage, keeping you connected with minimal impact on battery life and data usage.

Stay tuned for more news from Barcelona, and if you’re here for the show, visit us in the App Planet in Hall 7.

Skype coming to the iPhone on Verizon Wireless + new version adds TV video calling support

For those of you in the US, you will soon be able to use Skype on even more mobile phones. Tomorrow marks the launch of the iPhone on the Verizon Wireless network – the most reliable in the US.

Download Skype to your new iPhone to make great value calls to regular phones, as well as free video calls to other people on Skype.

We’ve also taken a small, but significant step in terms of the technology our iPhone app uses: it now supports H.264. What does this mean in reality? That you can now use it to make video calls to the full range of Skype devices, including TVs from Panasonic and Samsung.

It’s significant because it’s another step towards our goal to bring video to as many devices and platforms as possible. For now, it’ll mean that you can make that video call to your grandmother from wherever you are.

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 iPhone now with video calls

It’s as simple as that: our iPhone app now comes with video. Download it now from the App Store, or read on to find out more.

Skype for iPhone lets you make and receive free Skype video calls on your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch, and works over both WiFi and 3G connections*. With approximately 25 million† people signed into Skype at any given time, our new iPhone app makes it easy to share moments with your friends, family and colleagues, wherever you are.

With our new app, you can:

• Make video calls to people on their computers as well as other iPhones (details below)
• Make free audio calls to anyone else on Skype
• Make great value calls to landlines and mobiles around the world

The new app is compatible with the iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, and iPod touch 4th generation with iOS 4.0 or above. You can also receive video calls on the iPod touch 3rd generation and iPad. Calls can be made between devices using the new Skype for iPhone app and desktops including Skype for Windows 4.2 and above, Skype for Mac 2.8 and above, Skype for Linux and the ASUS videophone.

Skype for iPhone is one of the top five free iPhone apps in 2010 according to Apple, and now it’s just got even better.

* Additional data charges may apply. To get the best quality, we recommend a strong WiFi connection for video calling.
† At peak times, as of November 2010.

Skype mobile now available on BlackBerry OS 6 phones from Verizon Wireless

You can now get Skype mobile on two BlackBerry OS 6 phones from Verizon Wireless – the BlackBerry Curve 3G 9330 and the BlackBerry Bold 9650.

The app 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. And it’s just got even better.

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 and 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.

To get Skype on your BlackBerry OS 6 phone from Verizon Wireless, visit www.skype.com/m on your phone to download it.

* 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.

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 for Symbian now supports the new Symbian phones and includes improved call quality

We’ve just released an update to our Symbian app which adds support for the new Symbian phones, including the Nokia N8, C7 and E5.

It includes SILK, our high quality audio codec, which should help make sure your calls are crystal clear, even when you’re on a low-bandwidth connection.

Skype lets you:

• make free Skype-to-Skype calls and IM on 3G or WiFi *
• save money on calls and texts to phones abroad
• share pictures, videos and other files from your phone

The update also contains a number of interface improvements, making it easier to add contacts, navigate, add a photo to your profile and set your mood message. Additionally, we’ve updated the interface to better fit larger screens.

To download, visit skype.com/m from your mobile. See a full list of compatible phones.

* 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.

Skype now available on Motorola Citrus and DROID Pro, Samsung Continuum, LG Vortex and BlackBerry Curve 3G 9330 on Verizon Wireless

Skype mobile on 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. And it’s just got even better.

We’ve added support for the Motorola Citrus and DROID Pro, Samsung Continuum, LG Vortex and BlackBerry Curve 3G 9330.

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 and 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.

For Motorola Citrus or DROID Pro, BlackBerry Curve 3G 9330, Samsung Continuum or LG Vortex, head to www.skype.com/m from your phone’s browser or text SKYPE to 2255 for a link to download.

Don’t forget that you can also get Skype on the LG Fathom on Verizon Wireless, running Windows Mobile 6.5. To get Skype mobile on your LG Fathom, again visit www.skype.com/m on your phone or text SKYPE to 2255 for a link to download.

* 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.

Two ways to make great value calls from your iPhone

We’ve updated our iPhone app – you can now make video calls.

When news breaks, we’re not above shamelessly riding the wave of attention cresting over our competitors products – if it gets a few more people to enjoy Skype. So, it’s in that spirit that we offer you this humble post, reminding you that we offer two great calling options from your favourite mobile phone:

Our app

Offering great value calls to landlines and mobiles (subscription for as low as $1.09/€0.89/69p a month*, anyone?) and free calls with SILK quality to your more tech-savvy friends and family, you’d be crazy not to download it.

Skype To Go numbers

If your data coverage is patchy, or you prefer the convenience of being able to call right from the iPhone dial pad or Address Book, Skype To Go numbers are your best friends. You can set up local numbers for all your favourite people and call them using your mobile minute allowance† - all you pay is the fantastic Skype rate to wherever they are. And they don’t have to do a thing - except listen to you go on and on and on.

Finally, don’t forget that we have apps for plenty of other phones too.

If you have any questions, just drop a comment below or say hello to @skype on Twitter. Happy talking!

* A fair usage policy applies to unlimited subscriptions. $1.25/€1.02/79p per month including VAT where applicable.
† Your phone operator may charge you for a local call to your Skype To Go number. This might be included as part of your calling plan. To avoid high roaming charges, always call from a phone registered to the same country as a Skype To Go number.

Skype now available on HTC Wildfire and more

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

We’ve just released an update to our Android app, which includes a number of bug fixes and performance enhancements, which are detailed over on the Garage blog.

We’ve also added support for devices with smaller screens, such as the HTC Wildfire. We haven’t carried out our full suite of tests on these phones, so we can’t guarantee full functionality or compatibility, but you should now be able to install and run the app on devices with 320×240 and 240×400 pixel screens.

Don’t forget that you can use the app to call regular landline and mobile phones as well as other people on Skype – all you need is some Skype Credit or one of our great value subscriptions. With our unlimited subscriptions you can make unlimited calls to your friends and family around the world for as little as $1.09/€0.89/69p per month*.

* A fair usage policy applies. $1.25/€1.02/79p per month including VAT where applicable.

Skype mobile available on LG Fathom, LG Octane and Pantech Crux from Verizon Wireless

Back in March, we brought unlimited Skype-to-Skype voice calls and messaging to a variety of Verizon Wireless’ Android and BlackBerry smartphones, and earlier this year, we expanded the availability of the Skype mobile application onto a variety of 3G Multimedia phones with an app based on the BREW platform. Today, we’re announcing support for two new phones running BREW, the Pantech Crux and LG Octane, which will be available from Verizon Wireless later this week.

In addition, we’ve added support for Windows Mobile 6.5 smartphones from Verizon Wireless, starting with the LG Fathom. As you may recall, we withdrew Skype for Windows Mobile from the marketplace earlier this year, due to the challenges of maintaining a consistent user experience on this platform across a wide range of handsets. By working closely together with a mobile operator like Verizon Wireless, which has a very strong user base carrying devices running Windows Mobile 6.5, we can now give consumers a better experience on this platform.

The expansion of Skype mobile to a wider selection of devices will enable even more Verizon Wireless customers to tap into the Skype mobile experience and make unlimited Skype-to-Skype 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.

To get Skype mobile on your new Pantech Crux or LG Octane, you can download it from Media Center on your phone or from the Verizon online Media Store – or text SKYPE to 2777 for instructions to download.

To get Skype mobile on your LG Fathom, visit www.skype.com/m on your phone or text SKYPE to 2255 for a link to download.

Skype mobile is already supported on a wide range of Verizon Wireless 3G phones. See the full list of supported phones, or shop for a new phone.

* You’ll need a data plan in order to use Skype mobile on your Verizon Wireless phone.

We're partnering with KDDI in Japan

Following the announcement of our partnership with Verizon Wireless earlier this year, we’ve just announced a strategic alliance with KDDI to integrate Skype software across KDDI’s services, starting with its mobile network – au.

au customers will be able to benefit from Skype-to-Skype voice calls which don’t count against their monthly minute allowance*, IM, as well as great value calls to international numbers at Skype’s low rates.

The Skype app for au phones will be ‘always on’ so customers can see their friends’ online status at any time, as well as be able to receive Skype calls and Instant Messages whenever they’re connected.

We’ll initially make Skype available on the au IS01 and IS03 from November this year, and we have plans for deeper integration on a range of au Android devices as well as BREW devices in 2011.

If you’re in Japan, find out more and pre-register for Skype on the new IS03.

* Data plan charges apply when initiating/receiving a call but cease to apply once the voice call is established.

Improvements to our iPhone app

We’ve updated our iPhone app – you can now make video calls.

We’ve made some improvements to our iPhone app, and the new version is available for download from the App Store.

What’s new:

• New settings option - Go Offline. You can now choose the behavior of the application when it runs in the background. Instead of always running, you can choose an amount of time that the App stays online for, before going ‘offline’. Also, you can choose to ‘never’ stay online – which means that when you switch to another app, Skype will go offline. This is similar to how the app behaves when running on versions of iOS which don’t support multitasking. This may help extend battery life.
• Skype settings have a new look, and the options have more precise descriptions.
• We’ve improved event notifications. All types of event notifications appear in a friendlier format.

We’ve also fixed a number of bugs to improve the overall experience.

Download it now from the App Store.

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.

Skype mobile now available on Samsung Alias 2, LG Versa, LG Env3 and LG Dare

Skype mobile is now available on four new phones - the Samsung Alias 2, LG Versa, LG Env3 and LG Dare from Verizon Wireless - meaning that even more of you can take advantage of free Skype-to-Skype calls and instant messages from your mobile.

You can also make great value calls to landlines and mobile phones overseas using Skype Credit or one of our subscriptions. 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 and don’t count towards your Verizon Wireless minutes. Instead, you pay for these using Skype Credit or one of our subscriptions. For example, you can make unlimited calls† to landlines in Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey for just $6.99 per month.

To get Skype mobile on your Samsung Alias 2, LG Versa, LG Env3 or LG Dare, you can download it from Media Center/Get It Now or from the Verizon Media Store - or text SKYPE to 2255 for a link to the download.

Don’t forget that Skype mobile is also available for DROID, selected BlackBerry smartphones, and other multimedia phones from LG and Samsung, on Verizon Wireless.

* 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.

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.

Skype mobile now available on Verizon Wireless multimedia phones on the BREW platform

Six months ago, we announced a strategic relationship between Skype and Verizon Wireless to create the Skype mobile application and make it available on a variety of Verizon Wireless’ Android and BlackBerry smartphones.

Today, we’re taking another step forward with Verizon Wireless and expanding the Skype mobile application onto a variety of Multimedia 3G phones with an app based on the BREW platform, including the LG enV TOUCH, LG Chocolate Touch and Samsung Reality. This will allow even more Verizon Wireless customers to tap into the Skype mobile experience, particularly as we realize that not everyone has an Android or BlackBerry smartphone.

The Skype mobile app for Verizon Wireless 3G Multimedia phones works the same way it does on the carrier’s smartphones, letting 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.

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 and 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.

To get Skype mobile on your LG enV TOUCH, LG Chocolate Touch or Samsung Reality, you can download it from Media Center/Get It Now or from the Verizon Media Store – or text SKYPE to 2255 for a link to the download.

Don’t forget that Skype mobile is also available for DROID and selected BlackBerry smartphones on Verizon Wireless – just visit www.skype.com/m from your device to download it.

* 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.

Skype mobile - now on LG enV TOUCH, LG Chocolate Touch and Samsung Reality on Verizon Wireless

Even more of you can now put Skype in your pocket - Skype mobile is now available on the LG enV TOUCH, LG Chocolate Touch and Samsung Reality on Verizon Wireless.

It 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.

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 and 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.

To get Skype mobile on your LG enV TOUCH, LG Chocolate Touch or Samsung Reality, you can download it from Media Center/Get It Now or from the Verizon Media Store - or text SKYPE to 2255 for a link to the download.

Don’t forget that Skype mobile is also available for DROID and selected BlackBerry smartphones on Verizon Wireless - just visit www.skype.com/m from your device to download it.

* 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.

iPhone update: now supports multitasking, no additional charges for calling over 3G

We’ve updated our iPhone app – you can now make video calls.

In May, we upgraded our iPhone app to allow users to make calls over 3G data connections. Today, I’m pleased to introduce a brand new version of the app. It allows you to make calls with high quality sound, and supports multitasking. This means you can receive Skype calls while other apps are running, even when your iPhone is locked. And during a call, you can keep the conversation going while you switch to another task, such as checking a movie listing or reading an email. We’ve also updated the app’s graphics to support iPhone 4’s Retina Display.

Download it now for an even better Skype experience on your iPhone (opens in the App Store).

At Skype, we believe that better call quality and better availability (which is achieved with an app capable of multitasking and/or making calls over 3G) lead to increased call frequency and longer calls. We also believe that the mobile world is in a period of significant change, for example, with some operators starting to move to tiered pricing models.

In light of that, we no longer have plans to charge a supplement to make calls over 3G. We’re delighted to make it easier for you to talk for even longer and do even more together using Skype.

Multitasking requires iOS 4 and an iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, or a third-generation iPod touch (32GB and 64GB models from late 2009).

Skype for iPhone: Update for iOS 4 coming soon

We’ve updated our iPhone app – you can now make video calls.

Update: it’s out

There’s a lot of excitement among the mobile team here at Skype, as both iOS 4 and the iPhone 4 will arrive on our desks this week. And we’ve been hard at work building an update to our iPhone app which will support multitasking in iOS 4.

With every update to the iPhone OS (now called iOS), Apple introduces a number of changes to the software. In order to make sure we give you the best experience possible, we need to carry out some additional tests with the final version of iOS 4.

When we’re confident that the app will live up to your high expectations, we’ll make it available for download. Stay tuned!

Get Skype on your Sony Ericsson phone

Skype is now available for the Sony Ericsson Satio, Vivaz and Vivaz pro – all you have to do is visit skype.com/m on your phone, and you’ll be able to download it with a couple of taps. These three ranges are based on the popular Symbian platform, adding yet more phones to the hundreds of millions out there already compatible with Skype.

Skype for Symbian lets you:

• Make free Skype-to-Skype calls to your friends and family on Skype anywhere in the world*
• Save money on calls and texts (SMS) to phones abroad
• Send and receive instant messages to and from individuals or groups
• Share pictures, videos and other files
• Receive calls to your online number
• See when your contacts are online and available to call or IM
• Easily import names and numbers from your phone’s address book

Skype for Symbian will run on any Sony Ericsson smartphone using Symbian ^1, the latest version of the Symbian platform. Visit skype.com/m on your phone to download it now.

We recommend that you have an unlimited data plan to avoid incurring additional charges from your operator. You should also be aware that extra charges may apply if you use Skype over a mobile data connection when abroad.

5 million downloads and a Pocket PC public chat

Skype for Pocket PC reached an amazing milestone last month in reaching 5 million downloads and winning Smartphone and Pocket PC Magazine's Best Software 2006 award in the phone and fax category (for the second year running).

Things seem to move so fast at Skype that I often need to remind myself to stop and think. Reaching 5 million downloads in just over two years is unprecented in the Windows Mobile developer community and more than anything shows just how important an application Skype is to Pocket PC users.

Continue reading "5 million downloads and a Pocket PC public chat" »

Sat nav, mobile email, and Skype all in one package?

Yes, we want it all and it seems that we're getting it all in even smaller packages. This year saw more and more Windows Mobile phones with GPS and this is a theme that seems set to continue next year.

So I thought I'd give a little round up of a few

GPS Pocket PC phones

Continue reading "Sat nav, mobile email, and Skype all in one package?" »

Skype for Pocket PC 2.1 Beta

The convenience of a mobile with the simplicity of free calling.

Great news, a new version of Skype for Pocket PC is now available, which you can download from here or before you do that, why not find out a little more about the cool new features and some great ways to get the most out of Skype on a Pocket PC.

Continue reading "Skype for Pocket PC 2.1 Beta" »

CTIA Wireless 2006

Members of the Skype Mobile team will be at CTIA Wireless next week and we'd love to hear from companies and individuals who would like to work with us in bringing Skype to the global mobile community.

Please email us on ctia2006@skype.net with a brief explanation of who you are and what you can do to help us to delight and grow our global community of over 75 million users.

I'll be at the Symbian Partner Update event on Monday and courtesy of our friends at Brightpoint, we'll be at the Mirage on Thursday night and at other times we'll be roaming the halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center...

Have a great CTIA,

Tony

3 launches datacard with UK's best 3G coverage offering Skype

Mobile access to Skype, coming to a city near you..

Following our global announcement with hutchison 3 Group at 3GSM in Barcelona, Skype is launching a joint marketing campaign with 3 UK enabling 3 customers to access Skype internet communications services through 3's datacard. The bundle consist of a datacard, data subscription and Skype starter pack. The starter pack includes the Skype software, a Skype headset and a SkypeOut voucher.

With over 88% population coverage for 3G services, the Skype datacard bundle offers 3 customers access to Skype via a laptop in more places in the UK than any other network.

http://www.three.co.uk/handsets/datacardOverview.omp

Access to Skype on the move has never been easier.

Stay tuned...

Live from CeBIT

I just wanted to quickly share some of the exciting new Pocket PC devices I've seen at CeBIT. The great news for Skype users looking to go mobile is that more and more Pocket PC devices capable of running Skype are becoming available and devices are becoming smaller and with new features being added such as QWERTY keyboards, GPS etc.

Continue reading "Live from CeBIT" »

Skype Goes Mobile: unlimited communications, Anywhere, Anytime

Skype is breaking new ground in making unlimited high-quality Internet communications available anywhere, anytime through global partnerships with leading mobile operators and device makers, and new versions of its software for mobile devices.

With Skype in their pockets, people will be able to keep in touch with friends, family and colleagues wherever they go - at home, at work or on the move. There will be no need for a PC in order to be part of the global Skype community.

In addition to mobile Internet calling, Skype on mobile devices will enable people to chat with their contacts around the world using Skype Instant Messaging (IM), and share their availability through 'Skype presence'. Contacts will be automatically synchronized between the mobile device and the PC.

2005 was the year Skype brought Internet communications to more than 75 million registered PC users: 2006 is set to be the year Skype goes mobile.

Continue reading "Skype Goes Mobile: unlimited communications, Anywhere, Anytime" »