The Skype 2.0 update hit iPhones yesterday and brings with it 3G voice calling. Which is huge if you view AT&T as the agnostic data pipe it should be. So, instead of paying their possibly exorbitant rates, we now have a legit alternative. All 2.0 improvements:
- Call using your 3G connection. Skype-to-Skype calls on 3G are free until at least end of August 2010, after which there will be a small monthly fee (operator charges for data will still apply).
- Near CD-quality sound for Skype-to-Skype calls using wideband audio (SILK codec) on iPhone 3GS and 2nd generation iPhone touch.
- Enhanced call quality indicator.
- Improved start-up time.
- Fast access to the dial pad from iPhone home screen.
Skype for iPhone has served me well over WiFi when calling or traveling abroad. Enabling 3G voice functionality makes it that much more useful.
Seems like there’s been some noise regarding Skype-to-Skype calls requiring a new service fee later this year. First, fees for service seems reasonable to me. Skype is not a charity. Second, 100% of my calls are to “real” phone lines… and the relevant fees have been more than reasonable. (Other than to some international “mobile” lines, which is mostly out of their control.)
No Bluetooth support in 2.0 seems like a major oversight.
OK, I’m probably missing something, how could google voice save money if it’s not a voip? I have been trying to figure out a way ahead of picking up the HTC EVO on friday.
Yeah, mental gaffe on my part. Not the first time I’ve attributed additional capabilities to Google Voice. And I really should know better as I’ve had an account since the Grand Central days. Guess I’m overcompensating so that Todd won’t get on me for insufficient GV references. :)
but the big questions is, does it FIX the skype over wifi if VPN bug!
Il est enfin temps que Skype iclue la 3G pour l iPhone.