Microsoft Offering 12 Months of Premium Skype Features For Free

In celebration of this month's launch of the Skype Collaboration Project Microsoft is running a new promotion that is will offer Skype users free group calls, free group screen sharing, no advertising and access to live customer support, for free. All of these features are typically reserved for premium account holders but by singing up now you can get them free for 12 months.

The Skype Collaboration Project, was launched as an online destination that focuses on the intersection between technology and creative industries. The projects goal is to shine a spotlight on creative talent, including celebrated British fashion designer Victoria Beckham. With The Skype Collaboration Project, Skype wants to inspire emerging creative talent in four ways:

• Using technology to bring innovative ideas and products to life
•  Channeling passion and entrepreneurial spirit into success
• Shaping inspiration into reality through the power of collaboration
• Exhibiting the incredible craft from artisans around the globe
• As part of the project, The Skype Conversation Series, will offer students, fashion fans and creatives exclusive access to the innovators, experts and fashion insiders at the heart of industry.

To signup for the 12 month offering simply visit the Skype Collaboration offer page, enter a valid email address, yes it must be a valid email as they will send a code to your inbox, and you are done. The offer must be redeemed on or before 30th April 2014 and commences on the redemption date. Skype account required and subscription may only be redeemed in respect of one Skype account. Skype's Terms of Use apply. To redeem your code, click here.

Skype Shows Off Browser Plug-In For Outlook.com Calling

Microsoft is showing off a preview version of a new browser based Skype plugin for Outlook.com which allows users to make calls and send instant messages directly from the Outlook.com webmail. The Skype for Outlook.com preview will initially roll out in the United Kingdom and will be made available in the United States and Germany in the coming weeks. In the coming months, audio and video calling powered by Skype will be available in every Outlook.com inbox.

Skype for Outlook.com requires a one-time download of a plugin for your browser (available for the most recent versions of Internet Explorer, Chrome and Firefox). After you download the plugin, simply connect Skype to Outlook.com using your Microsoft account.

Customers with an existing Skype account will be asked to link Skype and Outlook.com in a few simple steps. Just merge your Microsoft and Skype accounts and you’re off and running. This will also allow you to add all of your Skype contacts to Outlook.com contacts.

For more details on the new service checkout the Skype Blog.

Skype Attracting More Malware

As with any service the bigger you are the better a target you are. As Skype's messaging platform continues to draw more and more users that is becoming ever more apparent as Skype is becoming an attractive target for malware writers.

More and more reports are surfacing about malware that is specifically engineered towards Skype's services and users. The latest reports came last week with the reporting of the Shylock financial malware spreading on Skype and yesterday two worms dubbed, Bublik and Phorpiex, were discovered spreading through Skype in Japan.

Bublik is a backdoor with rootkit functionality. It opens a direct connection between an infected computer and a control server and downloads additional plug-ins. In this case, Trend Micro discovered the Kepsy worm, which helps Bublik spread over Skype and also clears Skype message history. Bublik can also enable remote access for an attacker giving them total control over the infected machine. It also gathers and reports application data, system and network information, hardware specs and running processes.

The Phorpiex worm targets removable drives and spreads via Skype messages with links to sites hosting the worm. On Skype, the threat is distributed via messages that read “LOL,” followed by a link to what appears to be an image file. The Skype messages are actually generated by a plugin called WORM_PESKY.A. Trend Micro said Phorpiex connects to an IRC server and joins a particular IRC channel in order to execute commands from the attacker. It also downloads other malware onto the compromised system and sends itself out in email attachments. The worm will delete itself after it executes.

So far Phorpiex has been mainly targeting users from Japan with roughly 83% of all reported infections being found there.

With the widespread use and availability of the Skype in the Workplace beta, more users joining the service and Microsoft recommending Windows Messenger users move to Skype on March 15 when its platform disappears, these threats are likely to continue and likely to become even more sophisticated. Users need to remember to be ever vigilant when clicking links as most of these infections spread through infected sites that are linked in messages.

Skype Quickly Fixes Password Reset Vulnerability

Skype has moved rather quickly to mitigate a recently publicized flaw in the way the service handled password reset requests that allowed would be hackers easy access to a users Skype account.

A security vulnerability that has been verified by Skype earlier today, allowed someone to gain easy access to almost any Skype account simply by knowing their current email address. They could then use the same e-mail address as that of the intended victim to create a duplicate account and use the password reset form to reset the password for all accounts associated with that address, thereby locking out the original account owner from Skype.

As a preventative measure, Skype took quick action temporarily disabling its password reset page. However according to its latest blog post the company has already managed to resolve the security hole not long after verifying the flaw:

Early this morning we were notified of user concerns surrounding the security of the password reset feature on our website. This issue affected some users where multiple Skype accounts were registered to the same email address. We suspended the password reset feature temporarily this morning as a precaution and have made updates to the password reset process today so that it is now working properly. We are reaching out to a small number of users who may have been impacted to assist as necessary. Skype is committed to providing a safe and secure communications experience to our users and we apologize for the inconvenience.

So far there have been no reports of any kind indicating that Skype users would need to change their current passwords. But those that might be concerned can now do so using the password reset page accessible from their account profile.

Malicious Links Targeting Skype Users

Skype users be warned a new piece of malware has been detected that specifically targets you! A new piece of malicious software has been using Skype to send malicious instant messages. These message appear to come from users in your own contact list, however they contain malicious links that download a Trojan horse virus onto your machine.

The virus, which was first reported on Friday by GFI Labs, takes advantage of the Skype API to spam out messages that appear to come from a user in your contact list. These message similar to the one below instead send you a link that contains software for download:

lol is this your new profile pic? http://goo.gl/[REDACTED]?img=[USERNAME]

Clicking on the suspicious links leads to the download of a ZIP files (variously called skype_06102012_image.zip or skype_08102012_image.zip) that contains executable files detected by anti-virus products as Troj/Agent-YCW, Troj/Agent-YDC, TROJ_DLOADER.IF or Trojan.Win32.Generic!BT. The Trojan horse opens a backdoor, allowing a remote hacker to take control of infected PCs, communicating with a remote server via HTTP.

The virus which is known as the Dorkbot worm (WORM_DORKBOT.IF or WORM_DORKBOT.DN) is previously known for targeting users of Twitter and Facebook. Once installed the virus uses its host computer to engage in click fraud leading an infected users computer to other malicious sites and eventually installing further ransomware that locks the user out of the machine. Once installed the ransomware displays screens saying that they user's data will be deleted unless a $200 "fine" is paid in the next 48 hours.

Skype officials have said they are "working quickly to mitigate" the attack. They also advise users to ensure they're running the most up-to-date version of the Skype client.

"Skype takes the user experience very seriously, particularly when it comes to security. We are aware of this malicious activity and are working quickly to mitigate its impact. We strongly recommend upgrading to the newest Skype version and applying updated security features on your computer. Additionally, following links – even when from your contacts – that look strange or are unexpected is not advisable.

Despite Warnings Most Consumers Still Fail To Update Their Software

A new study indicates that nearly 40 percent of all users fail to update the software on their computers when initially prompted to do so while approximately one quarter of those surveyed said despite the warnings and headlines prompting them to do so they still don’t clearly understand what software updates do.

The new survey that was co-sponsored by Microsoft's Skype division asked American, British and German consumers if and when they were more likely to install critical software updates. Shockingly even though they received notifications on their computers telling them to update their software, more than half said they needed to see a prompt between two and five times before downloading and installing an update. Even for those consumers who recognized the benefits of upgrading, one quarter didn’t know how to check if their installed software even needs updating.

When asked for their top reasons for either downloading or not downloading updates, consumers across geographies offered the following responses:

Top Reasons for Updating
1. Keeping computers safe from viruses/hackers
2. Ensures software is free of bugs and crashes less often
3. Having the latest and greatest software features
4. Upgrades are often free

Top Reasons for Not Updating
1. Worried about computer security, so I don’t download everything I’m prompted to
2. There is no real benefit to me
3. Upgrades take too long
4. Lack of understanding about what the update(s) will do

The results of the study shows that a lot of folks don't quickly update their software when prompted to do so or fail to do so completely. This prompted the creation of a global initiative dubbed International Technology Upgrade Week (ITUW) with Skype teaming with Adobe, Symantec and TomTom to encourage consumers to regularly download free software updates to their computers, smartphones, tablets and other portable devices, like GPS units.

You can follow the discussion about International Technology Upgrade Week on Twitter using #Update4Free or on the Skype Facebook page. For more information about the study checkout the posting on the Official Skype Blog

Skype Offering Free WiFi Calling In 60 Airports December 21- 27th

We all know the pains of being stuck in the airport over the holiday season. All you want to do is get home to see your family but the weather has other plans. Well the team over at Skype is making it a bit easier to stay connected with your loved ones this year.

Skype is offering a free hour of Internet access to third party wireless hotspots as well as free video or voice calling over WiFi in select airports across the U.S. from December 21st thru December 27th. You can use Skype Credit as payment so there is no need to buy a day-pass from another service provider. If you've downloaded Skype on your computer or iOS device Skype WiFi is easy to use:

1. Sign in to Skype.
2. Go to Tools > Options... > Skype WiFi Access.
3. Tick Enable Skype WiFi Access.
4. Connect to a WiFi public hotspot.
5. In the Skype menu bar, click Tools > Skype WiFi Access.
6. Follow the instructions on the screen to select and join a compatible public WiFi network.

From December 21st thru December 27th free Skype WiFi will be available in the following airports:

• ALB - Albany International Airport
• ASE - Aspen-Pitkin County Airport
• ATL - Atlanta International Airport
• AUS - Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
• AZO - Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport
• BIL - Billings Logan International Airport
• BHM - Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport
• BNA - Nashville International Airport
• BOS - Boston International Airport
• BUF - Buffalo Niagara International Airport
• BUR - Bob Hope Airport Burbank
• BWI - Baltimore/Washington International Airport
• CWA - Central Wisconsin Airport
• DCA - Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
• DEN - Denver Int'l Airport - Concourse B Mezzanine
• DRO - Durango La Plata County Airport
• DSM - Des Moines International Airport
• DTW - Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
• ELP - El Paso International Airport
• EWR - Newark Liberty International Airport
• GEG - Spokane Airport
• GRR - Gerald R. Ford International Airport
• GSO - Piedmont Triad International Airport
• HOU - Houston William P Hobby Airport
• IAD - Dulles International Airport
• IAH - George Bush Intercontinental/Houston Airport
• IND - Indianapolis International Airport
• JAC - Jackson Hole Airport
• JFK - John F. Kennedy International Airport
• JNU - Juneau International Airport
• LGA - LaGuardia International Airport - Central Terminal
• MBS - MBS International Airport Terminal 1
• MDW - Chicago Midway Airport
• MEM - Memphis International Airport
• MIA - Miami International Airport
• MKE - General Mitchell International Airport (Milwaukee)
• MRY - Monterey Peninsula Airport
• MSP - Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport - Lindbergh Terminal
• OKC - Oklahoma City Will Rogers World Airport
• OMA - Eppley Airfield Omaha Int'l Airport
• ORD - Chicago O'Hare International Airport
• ORF - Norfolk International Airport
• PHF - Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport
• PVD - T F Green International Airport
• PWM - Portland International Airport
• SBN - South Bend Regional Airport
• SCF - Scottsdale Airport
• SDF - Louisville International Airport
• SFO - San Francisco International Airport
• SMF - Sacramento International Airport
• STL - Lambert St. Louis International Airport
• SWF - Stewart International Airport
• TOL - Toledo Express Airport
• TVC - Traverse City/Cherry Capital Airport

*Note: The offer is good from Dec. 21-27, and it lets you make voice and video calls to computers for free and to landlines and mobile phones using Skype credit. It works on PCs, Macs, and iOS devices. You must have the latest version of Skype to take advantage of the freebie.

For more information on free Skype WiFi, please visit http://blogs.skype.com/en/2011/12/skypeholidaywifi.html.

Skype Teams With Comcast For HD Video Calling On Your TV

Comcast and Skype today announced that the two companies have entered into a partnership that will allow Comcast customers to utilize Sype's HD video calling on their televisions. The new service would allow any Comcast customer to dial up their friends' Skype accounts and chat with them live while watching a TV show whether their friends and family use Skype on their home TVs, PCs, compatible smartphones or tablets.

In a joint press release the two companies outlined their plans for the new program. Announcing that beginning this month they would be rolling out customer trials. Details are pretty sparse at the moment with further product details expected to be made available later this year.

Here are a few features customers can expect:

• Make and receive Skype video and audio calls, or send instant messages via Skype on a television while watching their favorite TV show at the same time, and accept incoming calls during a TV show with the help of Caller ID.
• Make and receive video and audio calls, or send instant messages via Skype on a compatible mobile phone or tablet.
• Import friends to their address book from their Facebook, Outlook, Gmail and smartphone contact lists, find them on Skype and see when contacts are online and available to talk.

"Our unique relationship with Skype not only will change how our customers interact with their TV, but also will create new and meaningful ways to bring our customers closer to the people they care about," said Neil Smit, President, Comcast Cable. "TV has evolved into a social experience, and Comcast and Skype will be delivering a product that personalizes the TV experience even more, and brings friends and family together through the biggest screen in their homes."

Tony Bates, CEO, Skype, said, "We are pleased to announce this partnership with Comcast. By combining Comcast's broad living room reach with Skype's innovative communications platform and worldwide community of users, we can bring video calling into the heart of the home allowing people to share life's experiences both big and small."

This service will be delivered on the Comcast customer's HDTV through an adaptor box, a high-quality video camera, and a specially designed remote control that enables customers to text on Skype as well as control their television. The other calling party does not need any special equipment beyond what is needed to use Skype.

Comcast customers will also be able to access mobile features through Comcast's Xfinity Mobile app, and continue to enjoy conversations by switching from one compatible device (e.g., smartphone, tablet or television) to another.

Microsoft Buys Skype for $8.5 Billion, What Does That Mean For You?

Microsoft Corp. and Skype Global today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Microsoft will acquire Skype for $8.5 billion in cash from the company's current owners which is led by  investor group Silver Lake. The news off the buyout sent shock-waves through the Skype community with millions of user voicing concerns over what Microsoft might do with their beloved Skype service.

Some background

Skype has had turmoil filled past. Back in 2005 the company was bought by auction giant eBay for a mere $2.6 billion. At the time many in the tech world wondered where the service was headed as there were no obvious synergies with ebay's online auction business. It didn't take long for buyers remorse to set in as just four years later ebay put Skype on the block, eventually selling 70% of the business (for approximately $2 billion) to an investment group led by Marc Andreessen.

Last year, Skype had revenue of $860 million on which it posted an operating profit of $264 million. However, overall it made a small loss of $7 million, and had long-term debt of $686 million.

Despite the exchanges in ownership, the less than profitability of the company and several hardships, Skype has continued to grow and flourish. According to their acquisition announcement the company now has 170 million connected users with over 207 billion minutes of voice and video conversations made in 2010.

Why did Microsoft pay so much?

This seem to be a question on everyone's minds. It really isn't clear why Microsoft wanted to shell out more than twice what the company is worth. The company already has its own, all be it not as polished, voice and video service in Windows Live Messenger. They have nearly double the amount of monthly users at around 330 million active users each month. Yet the one thing Microsoft is lacking is paid users which Skype can boasts a total of nearly 8 million users that actually pay for the service.

In addition to adding in paid users the other mostly likely reason for the acquisition is that Microsoft wanted to keep the company out of the hands of it competitors. Sources have said Google and Facebook offered to partner or buy Skype for $3 billion to $4 billion. Microsoft likely went on the defensive and made a preemptive strike but we still have to wonder why MS doubled that offering price.

Investors are just as confused. "It doesn't make sense at all as a financial investment," said Forrester Research analyst Andrew Bartels. "There's no way Microsoft is going to generate enough revenue and profit from Skype to compensate."

What can Skype users expect now?

Clearly Microsoft will have some decisions to make. This is reportedly Microsoft's largest acquisition ever, which means Microsoft is not simply planning on casting aside Skype in favor of its own services. Will we see Skype rolled into Windows Live or the Office platform or will Microsoft continue developing it as a standalone service. We just don't know yest. They have already stated that they will continue supporting Skype on competing operating systems and platforms, particularly mobile devices.

"We're committed to the Skype user base," Ballmer said. "We want to continue to build and engage that base. Part of that commitment is continuing to support Skype on non-Microsoft platforms. We all know that people have things that they do at home and do at work, what we want to do is to offer a tool to bring them together. Skype enables communication across all of people's lives and all of their devices."

So it seems the waters are murky now!

No one really knows for certain what we can expect from the buy out. One thing is clear, with huge investment it just made Microsoft won't look at just shutting down or radically altering Skype. In the short term at least, Microsoft will not run in and ruin the service. They simply can't afford to. So those of you scrambling to find alternatives can relax for now. The acquisition still has to be approved, MS still has to take full control and things still have some ironing out to be done. In my opinion you are going to be safe from any Microsoft tinkering for at least a year or two.

Skype Tells Nimbuzz To Buzz Off

According to reports Skype has officially asked popular mobile communication service provider Nimbuzz to discontinue use of the Skype services starting October 31, 2010. Reasoning behind the move is as of yet unclear however Nimbuzz believes it comes as part of a strategy for Skype to disconnect all open third party support ahead of its impending IPO.

Evert Jaap Lugt, CEO of Nimbuzz, "Skype’s decision is unfair to its own and our users. People want to choose how they communicate and to be able to make calls and send messages, regardless of service, social network, device or operator network. Nimbuzz gives them the freedom to do so, Skype does not."

Skype has responded with this canned statement:

“Skype has been in discussions with Nimbuzz regarding our concern and belief they were using Skype’s software in ways which it was not designed for, in a breach of our API Terms of Use and End User Licence Agreement. Skype offered to meet Nimbuzz and discuss the issue however we have not heard back from them since our last correspondence to them in early August. As we have said before, Skype encourages openness and supports developers to build products that work with the Skype platform.”

Nimbuzz isn't going to slip quietly into the night. The company points out users will remain free to communicate with their contacts using other VoIP/SIP, instant messaging services and social networks, including Facebook, Yahoo, Windows Live Messenger, AIM, Google Talk, Twitter, MySpace, ICQ and others. They have also decided to offer current users a discount on their own paid VoIP services, NimbuzzOut.

The offer is as follows:

• A 15% bonus credit to use on NimbuzzOut. That’s 15% extra on top of the credits you want to purchase. To access the 15% bonus credit, go to http://www.nimbuzzout.com and once logged-in, use this code NIMBUZZ15 (valid until end of November 2010).
• NimbuzzOut now lets you call mobile phones and landlines in 45 countries for only 2 cents per minute!
• NimbuzzOut is supported on more than 115 Symbian devices, all iPhone / iPod Touch, and all of the Android handsets.

Read more via Nimbuzz - What the Skype/Nimbuzz Breakup Means To You

Skype And Facebook Unite

Skype today announced the launch of the new Skype 5.0 for Windows, with Facebook integration.

The Facebook integration makes Skype even more social. For the first time Skype users can keep up-to-date and interact with their Facebook News Feed, including posting status updates, commenting, and liking, directly from Skype. Even better, the Facebook Phonebook in Skype allows users to call and SMS their Facebook friends directly on their mobile phones and landlines with just a few clicks. If your Facebook friend is also a Skype contact, you can make a free Skype-to-Skype call.

With Facebook integration, you can:

• see your Facebook News Feed in Skype
• post status updates that can be synced with your Skype mood message
• comment and like friends’ updates and wall posts
• call and SMS your Facebook friends on their mobile phones and landlines
• make a free Skype-to-Skype call if your Facebook friend is also a Skype contact

"We're working with companies such as Skype to make it easy to find your friends anytime you want to connect," wrote Ethan Beard, director of Facebook's Developer Network, in a blog posting.

Source: Skype Blog

Skype Hits Android Market

Skype today announced the release of Skype for Android, a client for mobile handsets, built for smartphones running Android OS version 2.1 or above. With this latest release, the majority of smart phone users globally will now be able to experience the benefits of Skype on the move using either a WiFi or mobile data connection (GPRS, EDGE, 3G). Skype for Android is downloadable for free from the Android Market or consumers can visit www.skype.com/m to find out more details about how to get the application.
Skype for Android enables users to:

• Make free Skype-to-Skype calls over WiFi or mobile data connection (GPRS, EDGE, 3G)* to other Skype users anywhere in the world using Skype’s SILK codec for CD-like audio quality.
• Make low rate Skype calls to landline or mobile phones
• Send and receive instant messages to one or a group of friends on Skype
• Synchronize contacts between Skype and the native address book and after synchronization place Skype calls directly from the native address book.
• See when Skype contacts are online and available to call or chat
• Easily import names and numbers to the Skype application from the native address book
• Receive calls on their Skype online number

Mark Douglas, Product Manager of Android said: “The Skype experience is ubiquitous today. More and more people are using Skype to do things together when apart. With the addition of Android, we are pleased that Skype is now available on three of the most popular mobile platforms today: Android, iOS and Symbian”S


Skype Press Release

Skype Mobile for Verizon Wireless Launches Today

Beginning today, new and existing Verizon Wireless customers with Android 3G smartphones and BlackBerry 3G smartphones can get Skype mobile in a number of ways. Visit www.verizonwireless.com/skypemobile or www.skype.com/go/mobile from a PC to enter the mobile phone number to receive a text message with a link to the application. Verizon Wireless customers can also text “SKYPE” to 2255 to receive the link. In addition, Android customers will be able to download the app from Android Market. New BlackBerry customers will find the application on their 3G smartphones’ home screens in the Downloads folder when activated.

Skype mobile gives Verizon Wireless 3G smartphone users with data plans a simple new way to stay in touch with friends, family and business colleagues around the corner and around the world while on Verizon Wireless’ network. Skype mobile users can:

• make and receive unlimited Skype-to-Skype voice calls to any Skype contact around the globe;
• send and receive unlimited instant messages with other Skype users;
• manage the Skype contact list directly from the mobile application; and
• call international phone numbers at competitive Skype calling rates.

Customers need a Verizon Wireless smartphone and data plan to use Skype mobile. Skype-to-Skype calls will not be charged against their monthly minute allowances or data plans. Verizon Wireless customers can visit www.skype.com to purchase Skype Credit to make Skype Out calls and make calls to international landline or mobile numbers.

Skype mobile will be available initially on millions of best-selling Verizon Wireless 3G smartphones, including the BlackBerry Storm 9530, Storm2 9550, Curve 8330, Curve 8530, 8830 World Edition, and Tour 9630 smartphones, as well as DROID by Motorola, DROID ERIS by HTC and Motorola DEVOUR.

More details can be found via the Skype Blog

Verizon Adding Skype Support In March

Verizon Wireless and Skype this week have announced a new partnership that will bring Skype to Verizon Wireless smartphones coming in March. The new Skype mobile product enhances Verizon Wireless’ smartphones for users who have data plans by offering a new way to call around the globe, while also giving hundreds of millions of Skype users around the world the opportunity to communicate with friends, family and business colleagues in the United States using Verizon Wireless.

The two companies have created an exclusive, easy-to-use Skype mobile offering for 3G smartphones. Verizon Wireless 3G smartphone users with data plans can use Skype mobile to:

• make and receive unlimited Skype-to-Skype voice calls to any Skype user around the globe on America’s most reliable wireless network;
• call international phone numbers at competitive Skype Out calling rates;
• send and receive instant messages to other Skype users; and
• remain always connected with the ability to see friends’ online presence.

Initially, Skype mobile will be available on millions of best-selling Verizon Wireless 3G smartphones with data plans, including the BlackBerry Storm 9530, Storm2 9550, Curve 8330, Curve 8530, 8830 World Edition and Tour 9630 smartphones, as well as DROID by Motorola, DROID ERIS by HTC and Motorola DEVOUR.


You can read more at the About Skype Blog

Skype Now Offering HD Video Calls

Skype today announced support for Skype video calls on PCs in 720p high definition (HD), as well as Skype software embedded into Internet-connected widescreen televisions from its consumer electronics manufacturer partners.

The latest version of Skype for Windows can deliver up to 720p HD-quality video calling at 1280 x 720 resolution, at up to 30 frames per second, giving individuals an even smoother and richer video calling experience. To make an HD video call, users will need a high-speed broadband connection, a new HD webcam, a PC with a 1.8 GHz processor and Skype 4.2 Beta for Windows.

“With HD-quality Skype video calls, we can bring our users even closer to the ones they love through an even richer, more meaningful video calling experience,” said Josh Silverman, CEO of Skype. “Imagine being able to see the sparkle of your grandchild’s eyes or the setting of your best friend’s engagement ring. Through the innovation of Skype’s engineers and our hardware partners, these scenarios are now possible without having to buy expensive equipment or software.”

New HD webcams are due to arrive in early 2010. At CES, faceVsion and In Store Solutions introduced new HD webcams that are optimized to work with Skype. In order to make HD video calling available to as many people as possible, the new Skype Certified™ HD webcams handle the video encoding and processing onboard, removing the need for a high-performance computer to encode the HD video.

faceVsion developed the FV TouchCam N1, an HD encoding webcam optimized for Skype video calling. Two versions of the faceVsion webcam will ship, beginning in February 2010: one with a microphone and one without. In Store Solutions introduced two new HD encoding webcams, the FREETALK HD PRO ($120) and FREETALK HD PRO PLUS ($140), which will be available in March 2010. Both the faceVsion and FREETALK webcams will be available for purchase online via the Skype Shop.

Skype-enabled Televisions

At CES, Skype announced partnerships with LG and Panasonic to offer Skype–enabled HDTVs. Skype software will be embedded into Panasonic’s line of 2010 VIERA CAST-enabled HDTVs and LG’s 26 new LCD and plasma HDTVs with NetCast Entertainment Access. Both lines are expected to be available in mid-2010. Both LG and Panasonic will offer specially-designed HD webcams that are optimized for Skype video calls as separate accessories that can be plugged into the televisions. These webcams support 720p HD and include special microphones and optics that can pick up sound and video from a couch-distance.

The new HDTVs will deliver familiar Skype features including:

• Free Skype-to-Skype voice and video calls
• Calls to landline or mobile phones at Skype’s low rates
• The option to receive inbound calls via a user’s online Skype number
• Skype voicemail, if it is set up
• Being invited to participate in voice conference calls with up to 24 other parties
• Support for up to 720p HD video calls, depending on the availability of high-speed broadband and a HD webcam

Source: Skype

Skype expands Skype for SIP beta program - About Skype

Businesses can now use SIP-based PBX & Unified Communications systems to make voice calls via Skype

Skype is opening up the Skype for SIP beta program to allow businesses of all sizes to utilize Skype for SIP with their existing SIP-based PBX or Unified Communications (UC) systems. By using Skype for SIP, companies can save money on calls around the world, while also changing how customers globally reach them.

A company's IT administrator just creates and registers a Skype Business Control Panel (BCP) for the organization and then follows the instructions to configure Skype for SIP to work with its existing SIP-enabled communications system. This Web-based tool allows a company to control its Skype usage from a single point and enables centralized billing, easy allocation of Skype Credit, subscriptions and online numbers to users, as well as reporting about both usage and spending. Furthermore, it gives companies the ability to manage internal employee accounts, including who uses Skype and who doesn't and what features they can use.

"We have received applications from nearly ten thousand businesses and service providers around the world about using Skype for SIP to seamlessly connect their existing communications systems with Skype," said Stefan Oberg, VP and General Manager of Skype for Business. "Now that we are opening up the beta program, the companies on the waiting list and any new applicants can set up Skype for SIP and experience how it can help them save money on outgoing calls, as well as accept free incoming Skype calls from the more than 520 million registered Skype users around the world."

One company that has started testing Skype for SIP is Maxim Integrated Products, a Fortune 1000 company that designs, manufactures, and sells high-performance semiconductor products used in the industrial, communications, consumer, and computing markets.

To date, Maxim has deployed Skype's desktop software to more than 2,000 employees in 70 locations around the world, a move that supplemented its existing PBX systems and has already saved the company hundreds of thousands of dollars on long distance calling. This enabled Maxim to avoid a costly multi-million dollar upgrade of its aging legacy PBX systems. Maxim has now rolled out a trial of Skype for SIP using a ShoreTel PBX in its Dallas office, which is configured to use 22 concurrent channels for domestic calling.

"Our Skype deployment has already turned Maxim into more of a real-time organization where we get our work done better, faster and cheaper," said Walter Curd, CIO of Maxim Integrated Products. "With Skype for SIP, our ShoreTel PBX will now enable calls from desktop phones to go out via Skype. This will allow us to capture more calling traffic via Skype and save even more money, while making it invisible to our employees."

Key Features

Skype for SIP beta enables businesses with interoperable PBXs to:

• Place calls to landlines and mobile phones worldwide from any device connected to a SIP-enabled PBX or UC systems via Skype;
• Receive and manage inbound calls from Skype users worldwide on SIP-enabled PBXs by either connecting the company Web site to the PBX via Skype click-to-call buttons or purchasing online Skype numbers; and
• Manage Skype calls using existing PBX or UC system features, such as call routing, conferencing, phone menus and voicemail; no additional downloads or training required.

"Businesses are looking for ways to better organize their communications across mobile devices and their PBX, while also saving money," said Rebecca Swensen, analyst at IDC covering IP Communications Services. "SIP interoperability is the key to delivering this type of service; vendors looking to stay competitive in the business market need to offer it as a fundamental component of their communications platform."

Pricing and Availability

Companies using Skype for SIP must purchase a monthly channel subscription from Skype based on the number of concurrent calls being made or received. Each channel allows for one inbound or one outbound call at any given time. Incoming Skype calls to the SIP-enabled PBX or UC system are free of charge to the Skype user. Calls to landlines and mobiles made using Skype for SIP are billed at Skype's standard per-minute calling rates (a connection fee may apply).

As part of the Skype for SIP open beta program, Skype has created a low introductory price for the monthly channel subscription of just €4.95 / $6.95 per channel.

For more information or to sign up for the Skype for SIP beta, visit www.skypeforsip.com.

Source: Skype

Skype Confirms Open Source Linux Version Coming Soon

Initially reported by Olivier Faurax (link in French) Skype has now confirmed what it initially emailed Faurax and stated they will be offering an open source version of the Skype UI to "speed up further development".

Faurax originally reported that he had received confirmation following an email to Skype support pushing for an RPM for Mandriva. The unnamed Skype representative replied with the following:

"We understand that many users complain that there is no Mandriva version at present. We are happy to be able to inform you that Skype will from now on be part of the open source community. Therefore Linux developers will be enabled to influence the development of the Skype client for Linux - which will most certainly result in specific versions for the different distributions."

Yesterday Skype confirmed the reports via the Skype Open Source Blog.

"Yes, there's an open source version of Linux client being developed. This will be a part of larger offering, but we can't tell you much more about that right now. Having an open source UI will help us get adopted in the "multicultural" land of Linux distributions, as well as on other platforms and will speed up further development. We will update you once more details are available."

The UI will be open source, whereas other parts such as the network protocol will remain closed but this is still a step in the right direction for all you Linux an open source lovers out there.

ASUS Launches Skype Certified Videophone

ASUS Launches Skype Certified Standalone Videophone with Large, Brilliant Touchscreen

Co-developed with Skype, the ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T is the Most Intuitive Way to Make Free Unlimited Video Calls without a Computer

ASUS today launched a Skype Certified touchscreen videophone dedicated to unlimited video calling over the Internet—the ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T. Part of the videophone product family, it is the first to feature a large 7" touchscreen, greatly speeding up character input and making any video calling experience more intuitive and fun. The touchscreen works in tandem with the standalone device's built-in webcam, speaker, microphone and Wi-Fi capabilities to let users make unlimited video calls for free to other Skype users without the need for a computer. This latest version expands and improves upon the first generation ASUS videophone announced last year.

The ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T's simple-to-use, icon-based touchscreen interface takes the complexity out of Internet calling—making it easy for anyone to make and receive Skype-to-Skype video and voice calls. Users can even participate in conference calls, making the ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T an inexpensive, all-in-one voice and video conferencing solution for small businesses. Furthermore, the ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T allows users to make calls to fixed and mobile lines at really cheap rates; users can also receive calls from any land or mobile phone line if they have an online Skype number.

"Skype goes beyond traditional voice calling and brings people closer through rich, real-time video communication," said Manrique Brenes, Skype's director of business development and product management for consumer electronics. "The device's touchscreen makes video calling an even easier and more accessible way for people to communicate. It offers the benefits of Skype video calling and exceptional audio quality—allowing friends, families, and small businesses to share their worlds face-to-face without being tied to a computer."

Free Calls Whenever, Wherever

With the ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T, free unlimited video and voice calls can be made to anyone on Skype. This lets users make Skype-to-Skype calls whenever the need arises, without having to worry about costs. ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T users can also receive calls from Skype users who don't have a videophone.

ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T users looking to make calls to fixed and mobile lines can subscribe to one of Skype's popular unlimited calling* subscriptions or purchase Skype credits at www.skype.com.

Great Video and Voice Communications Experience

The ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T is designed specifically for video calls and is equipped with a large, high-resolution 7" touchscreen and an integrated webcam for greater video call quality. Its built-in microphone and speaker also ensure exceptional sound quality; users who wish to maintain their privacy during calls can opt to use a standard mini-jack headset and microphone.

Easy to Set Up and Easy to Use

The ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T offers the quickest, easiest and most fun way to make free video calls—at no point is a computer or additional software required. Users can be up and running in three simple steps:
Connect to a broadband connection, either wirelessly or via an Ethernet cable
Sign-in with an existing Skype name or create a new one
Start video calling

The ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T is as easy to use as it is to set up. Its intuitive icon-driven touchscreen interface enables the speedy keying-in of characters, allowing for fast contact searches and the inputting of new contact information.

With its Wi-Fi capability, small footprint and rechargeable battery power supply, the portable ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T does not need to be tied to a wall socket nor a computer during use. It can be moved from room to room without the hassle of interrupting or dropping a call.

Pricing

The ASUS AiGuru SV1T is currently available from several retailers with a starting price of $299.

Source: ASUSTeK

eBay Plans To Spin Off Skype, IPO Planned For 2010

In an interesting twist to a story we were covering earlier about the potential sale of Skype to the original founders eBay has now announced plans to spin Skype off as an independent company.

eBay Inc. Announces Plan for 2010 Initial Public Offering of Skype

SAN JOSE - April 14, 2009 - eBay Inc. today announced that it plans to separate Skype from the company, beginning with an initial public offering that is intended to be completed in the first half of 2010. Specific timing of the IPO will be based on market conditions.

"Skype is a great stand-alone business with strong fundamentals and accelerating momentum," said eBay Inc.'s President and CEO, John Donahoe. "But it's clear that Skype has limited synergies with eBay and PayPal. We believe operating Skype as a stand-alone publicly traded company is the best path for maximizing its potential. This will give Skype the focus and resources required to continue its growth and effectively compete in online voice and video communications. In addition, separating Skype will allow eBay to focus entirely on our two core growth engine - e-commerce and online payments - and deliver long-term value to our stockholders."

The decision to separate Skype is based on a timeline outlined by Donahoe when he became eBay's CEO in April 2008. At the time, the company said it would spend a year evaluating Skype and its potential synergies within the eBay Inc. portfolio before making any decisions about Skype's future. Donahoe also installed a new management team at Skype led by Josh Silverman, which has driven stronger momentum and improved performance. In 2008, Skype generated revenues of $551 million, up 44 percent from 2007, and segment margins of approximately 21 percent. Registered users reached 405 million by the end of 2008, up 47 percent from 2007, and user metrics improved significantly throughout the year. The company recently announced that it expects Skype to top $1 billion in revenue in 2011, nearly doubling 2008 revenues.

"Under the leadership of Josh Silverman and his management team, Skype has become a stronger business in the past year, and I expect it will be even stronger a year from now," Donahoe said. "Skype has accelerating global user growth and strong fundamentals, diversified revenue streams and is competitively positioned in a large market. We expect Josh and his team to continue delivering results as we prepare Skype for an IPO."

Most recently, the release of the Skype for iPhone application has generated a great response. More than one million people downloaded Skype for iPhone in the first 36 hours after it became available--and Skype immediately became the No. 1 downloaded free iPhone application in more than 40 markets, including the U.S., UK and Japan. In just over a week, downloads passed the two million mark, putting Skype on more than 6 percent of all iPhones and iPod Touch - and adding almost half a million new Skype users.

Source: Skype Press Release

eBay Sales Off StumbleUpon Is Skype Next?

eBay has sold StumbleUpon back to the original co-founders Garrett Camp and Geoff Smith along with several investors making the company independent again after nearly two years. The details of the purchase weren't disclosed so we don't know how much of original $75 million that eBay paid for the purchase of the site in 2007 the company got back.

Since taking over StunbleUpon eBay has watched the site grow from 2.3 million to more than 7.4 million members, and from about 150 million recommendations per month to 425 million. In the same period, the number of advertisers grew from a few hundred to about 20,000. But eBay never really assimilated StumbleUpon into its overall business model.

"It was a pretty lucrative offer, because nothing really changed," co-founder Garrett Camp said. "The startup remained at its offices in downtown San Francisco, where it still operates, and got a valuable infusion of capital. But ultimately, eBay couldn't find a way to integrate StumbleUpon into the larger business", he said.

"As eBay Inc. expands its leadership in online payments and e-commerce, it has become apparent that there are few long-term, strategic synergies between StumbleUpon and the eBay Inc. portfolio," eBay said on its official eBay INK blog.

It appears as though eBay might be cutting some of the fat and some of their more questionable acquisitions. Rumors have surfaced over the past few weeks that Skype's founders have been looking to travel down the same path the StumbleUpon founders did.

According to reports from both Reuters and the New York Times Skype's Co-founders Niklas Zennstrom and Janus Friis have contacted several private equity firms in order to make a bid for the company. eBay bought Skype back in 2005 for $2.6 billion however sources from the Times estimated the new deal to be worth slightly less at just over $2 billion.

Yesterday the WSJ Blog Deal Journal reported eBay was encouraging them to make an offer, however it appears their original offer fell short. According to the post the proposal involved private-equity firms contributing some $1 billion to the deal and eBay providing financing for the rest of the capital.

The founders’ offer fell on deaf ears, as it was well below the price at which Ebay was willing to sell the business. The two sides are far apart and at this stage a deal involving the private-equity firms is unlikely to be completed, said people familiar with the matter.

Skype has largely been a disappointment since it was acquired by eBay. The company took a $1.4 billion write down against the company last year. However this year the company has turned things around. Becoming the world's largest provider of long distance communications while posting $550 million in revenue.

Neither eBay or Skype's co-founders have come forth with comments regarding the deal and most sources have said at this time it seems unlikely a deal will happen. eBay is reportedly looking for more than they pair are willing to offer at this time.

Update 4/14 - 2:00PM
In a strange twist to the story eBay today announced plans for a 2010 IPO of Skype, spinning the company off on its own. For more details see our latest post "eBay Plans To Spin Off Skype, IPO Planned For 2010"