Versatility - Other forms of 'Skype' Technology

As we know, Skype is a technology that allows us to "be there", without actually "being there". Its more than just a phone call, and its more than just an instant messaging system, its a new and innovative way of communication between two or more people, that allows the users to physically see each other through the use of a webcam on each sending and receiving device. This webcam along with satellite technology transmits a physical motion picture of the user, unlike a telephone, or an instant messenger. These lower level technologies lack face-to-face communication and therefore create a barrier between the communicators and their message.

Skype has inspired the development of webcam communication software all over. With these ideas, Face Time was created by apple for mac computers, which then eventually made it to the mobile time. Phones are now manufactured with cameras on both the front and the back of the phone, which allows you to point the phone at you, and look into the phone to see the person you are speaking with and vice versa. This process is similar to that from the computer, where one camera transmits while the screen serves as a platform for visual communication. Other brands have also copied this form of "Mobile Skype" including T mobile with BobSled, and the actual mobile Skype on the blackberry functional system. So now you can Skype on the go. You can talk and walk at the same time. You no longer have to sit at your computer to Skype or "video chat" someone. Now you and your receiver can be in two places at once!

Sources:

www.apple.com

http://www.apple.com/mac/facetime/

Beyond the Video

There’s more to Skype than the average person might know. Most people think Skype is only for video calling, but there are tons of things you can do. First off there’s chatting which is a way to talk to others through instant messaging. Its great because if you don’t have time for a long conversation, you can just type in what you want to say. You can also send files such as pictures, videos, Mp3 downloads, etc. This is easier than sending an email, and a lot faster. You can also play different games by yourself or with people from your contact list. You can even personalize you Skype page. You can create an avatar that you can have depicted as your picture for your friends to see. You can also let others know how you are feeling by posting a video, mood or short sentence or two as your own personal tag line to share with your friends. By personalizing your page, you can let your imagination run wild with amazing ideas. Also, a small fee, you can call other mobile numbers. It’s a great way to stay in touch with people no matter where you are even if you don’t have a cell phone. Skype has a lot to offer to various people and personalities. I advise everyone to go out and explore all the capabilities Skype has to offer.

Skype Features - Why You Should Use It

Calling Features:

• Skype to Skype
• Phones and mobiles
• Online numbers
• Conference calls
• Skype on the go

Video Features:

• Video calling
• Group video calling
• Screen sharing

Messaging:

• Instant messaging
• Send files
• SMS messaging
• Facebook (link with)

Other Features:

• Skype Wi-Fi (only pay for time online not amount downloaded)
• Call forwarding and transfers
• Voicemail



Source: www.skype.com

Pros and Cons of Using Skype

PROS of Skype

Skype is a free download that lets you use your computer to make telephone calls. Calls from one Skype user to another are free, wherever they are in the world. You make calls using usernames rather than traditional phone numbers, and an instant-messaging client (for text chatting) is included. Skype does not carry adware or spyware. You can also use a video chat and this allows you to see the person you are talking to at the same time.
--SkypeOut, for calling ordinary phones;

--SkypeIn, which provides a real phone number so non-Skype users can call you

--Skype Voicemail, to answer your calls when you are away from the PC. Skype provides its users with a great number of features at a low cost.
--To use Skype you need a PC running Windows, Mac OS X, or Linux, or a PDA with Windows Pocket PC 2003.

--Internet connection, a headset or equivalent, and the Skype software. Manufacturers are making phones with a traditional look and feel that work with Skype (for people who don't like headsets.)

--Skype is a VoIP (Voice over IP) program, which just means making telephone calls over a computer network.

--Reliability, ease-of-use, and great marketing. --PC-based VoIP programs all have their own way of transmitting data, so users of competing products can't call each other directly.

--Skype is a useful, free, and well-made piece of software. You have much to gain from trying it

--Very easy to download and it’s a free way to connect with family members and friends, as well as, business corporations.

--It’s free to text chat

--Some cell phones are able to run a Skype application that will allow you to use Skype whenever you are in range of an accessible wireless internet connection


--More than one person can talk at a time because of the video chat (speakers and microphone)

CONS of Skype

--You must have a smart phone or Internet access to use Skype

--The video chat could be a lot better. Skype’s competitors offer a higher resolution of the video chat quality.

--The quality of sound with VoIP isn't as good as on a landline or mobile.

--If you use a webcam the sound quality deteriorates.

--There is frequently background noise and the service can be subject to drop-outs.

What are your Skype experiences?

Why we use Skype. We want you to share your experiences with Skype too!