Popular VoIP service Skype can be used on the go thanks to a Java-powered application released recently. Skype Lite, now available in the Android Marketplace, brings Voice over Internet Protocol service and new calling options to Android phones.
For the uninitiated, Skype is a communication service that makes phone calls, sends instant messages, and hosts video conference with others through the internet. Think of those quirky Vonage commercials for a similar understanding of the way things work.
Skype Lite doesn’t have video conferencing capabilities, so you may wonder what good this app can do if you already have calling and IMing capabilities on your mobile phone. Well, the simple answer is you probably don’t need this app, but you may discover that it’s something worth wanting. Skype makes international calls using prepaid credits, which can be more cost-effective than calling cards or expensive international calling plans on landlines. And since Americans are increasingly becoming more dependent on cell phones than landlines, this may be a great alternative to signing up for a monthly plan with your local phone company.
Skype Lite is a stripped-down transition from the desktop service, however it does use Skype credits. Unlike the desktop version, Skype-to-Skype calls are not entirely free. (Be sure to review the Skype price breakdown). A barebones Skype is still useful, and could be employed to help avoid going overboard on your cell phone plan making international calls. Unfortunately, you will be using your plan’s standard minutes in Skype Lite.
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January 12th, 2009 at 12:27 am
Does this use up regular minutes? or is it over a wifi connection?
January 12th, 2009 at 12:48 am
Yes, it does take up your minutes (unless used during your plan’s free nights and weekends periods). I’ve edited the post for clarity. Thanks for pointing that out.
This app only makes sense if you plan on making international calls or need your Skype contacts with you on the go.
January 16th, 2009 at 2:04 am
Its funny you use the W960’s image in this post. W960 use Symbian UIQ, thats its different from Nokia’s symbiam. Good news.
January 16th, 2009 at 2:05 am
Great Blog too.
September 30th, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Again, with the nice messages. Are you ever critical (when necessary)?
Skype Lite for the Android is nearly useless and is far from what iPhone users have.
1. It doesn't do Skype to Skype VoIP.
2. It doesn't support ANY form of calling in Canada (and I suspect other countries outside of the U.S.). Message, "Calling is not available in your region". But it will allow receiving of calls.
3. It does not support already set profiles (from desktop).
4. It does not reliably pick up calls if the phone is not in use (standby).
5. In coming calls at transferred to your cell phone (and cell phone answering service). It doesn't go through Skype.
6. VoIP is not support and there is no WiFi capability!
7. All calls are pay calls.
September 30th, 2009 at 8:20 pm
I just wanted to say that after many months and no further development on this app… I am pretty disappointed.
October 24th, 2009 at 9:05 pm
Wow! What a blog. You have a real knack for making a blog readable and easy on the eyes. Some sites look like train wrecks, but not this site – it’s a pleasure to read. I find VoIP very interesting. I have learned a lot in implementing a small VoIP network at home, and am thinking of starting VoIP business in my area. There are a number of small businesses in my region that would benefit from it greatly.
January 15th, 2010 at 8:45 pm
Just tried to use in on my Nexus One. Tried regular 3G, tried Wifi only … no connection can be established …. has anyone been able to use this on a Nexus One yet?