The Android version of Skype allows you to make free or cheap voice and video calls on your phone.
Features
This mobile version of the popular
VOIP app uses a WiFi or 3G connection (WiFi only in the US) to connect you to friends and family via
Skype. Besides calling, you can use the text chat feature to exchange instant messages with other Skype users.
Just like the desktop version, Skype for Android is very simple to set up and use. Once you've registered or signed in, you'll be given a virtual tour explaining exactly what you can do with the app. When getting started, you can choose to sync contacts. Contacts can be grouped, which makes things much easier if you have lots of friends.
There are still some features of the desktop version of Skype that are lacking from the app, such as group calls.
Usability
Skype's
user interface is very clear and straightforward, with navigation taken care of via a series of four icons on the plush main window. You can list contacts, make a call, view your status and profile, and look at your recent Skype activity.
Skype for Android now includes video calling, allowing you to chat face-to-face with your buddies, even if they are using another platform. The app has also recently added SMS support, allowing you to send text messages to mobile phones through it.
The interface of the tablet version of Skype for Android is really attractive and offers you easy access to all your contacts. The video chat window is excellent. It lets you display the sidebar during a call, so you can access other functions while you talk on video.
Quality
A problem with Skype on the Android is that it can't be closed very easily because there is no Quit option. Instead, you have to kill the app using an external task manager. The fact that it stays running is especially annoying given the fact that the app zaps your battery very quickly.
Conclusion
As an early release, Skype for Android isn't bad and offers an easy way to make cheap calls. However, it's still generally not as cheap as
fring.
Two-way video calling is only supported on the following devices: Google Nexus S, HTC Desire S, Sony Ericsson Xperia neo, Sony Ericsson Xperia pro.
Clicking the download button will take you to the Android Market where you can download this app.
