blog
Skype
A few people have been suggesting I download this peer-to-peer, free Internet Phone app called Skype for a while already, but I've only just recently installed it just to see what the fuss is all about. It was in beta for quite a while already but version 1.0 was just released on 27 July 2004.
I've only tried it once and the quality is pretty good, and there wasn't much dropouts, but then again the person I tested it with was also in Melbourne, and on the same broadband ISP as me. The main hindrance to it's widespread use is that it's yet another IM app to keep running in the background in addition to ICQ, Yahoo Messenger and MSN Messenger. Obviously, Skype too has it's own contact list and all of your contacts need to have Skype too. And it's Windows only. Linux and Pocket PC versions are in beta testing now, but there's no hint of a Mac version in development. :(
The PC to PC calls are free, and initially seems a bit redundant considering almost all the other IM apps already have voice and even webcam chat capabilities. Here's where Skype has something else up it's sleeve. It can also call normal phone numbers, for a fee. Comparing the rates with the calling card I normally use for making international calls, Skype's fees for calls to Malaysia are actually cheaper for landlines numbers, but calls to mobiles are almost the same as what I'm paying currently. I have not tried this part of Skype yet so I don't know how well it works nor the quality of the connection.
I don't know many people who actually use Skype so if you're one of them, give me a buzz.
Comments
Hi Jon.Have downloaded that in my work machine in Agilent.When I'm free, will give u a buzz to work it out :)
August 19, 2004 1:33 PM | Ken Lee said:
Hi Jon, I have skype too. Hope to add you in.
Keep in touch.
August 20, 2004 12:57 PM | Adrian Teo said:
Hey Jon,
Good news rgding Skype on the Mac. Found this gem on Appleinsider.com
August 21, 2004 8:11 PM | SY said:
Jon, it worked well, didn't it? I pinched a mic off a colleague but will be investing in one myself. Saves on longdistance phone calls! However, for my case, msn works better :)
August 23, 2004 1:21 PM | genedavinci said:
A good software! Been using it in office to communicate with Taiwan and China with it.. not problem at all although at times some delays but it very much acceptable since it's FOC in the first place. A good place to place your bets on!
August 30, 2004 12:49 AM | Ivan said:
Skype is GOOD! I don;t have a Mic though,.. anyways ITS TIME TO CHANGE LAYOUT of yur webbie di!!!
TOO MUCH TXT! MORE PICKETURES!!
August 18, 2004 11:32 PM | SY said: