Skype Offers Glimpse of Version 3.0

JogjaTechno - On Wednesday, Skype released an upgrade of its widely used free VoIP software. Skype 3.0, launched as a beta, has been redesigned with a revamped interface as well as numerous new features for conference calling and text messaging.

The latest version also adds I.T. management features to the mix to make the software easier to use in corporate settings.

The goal of Luxembourg-based Skype, which debuted in August 2003 and was acquired by eBay last year in a deal valued at $2.6 billion, is to offer software that turns broadband connections into phone lines, allowing users to make free calls over the Internet.

“With every release of our software, we want to give people the freedom to explore the boundaries of conversation and make Internet calling and ‘live’ online discussions the most natural thing in the world,” Henry Gomez, director of worldwide operations at Skype, said in a statement.

New Services

One notable new feature in the software is the ability to recognize telephone numbers on a Web page. Dubbed click-to-call, the function allows users to click on any phone number listed on a Web page to launch a Skype call.

Another feature, called Skypecasts, allows users to browse and join community discussions via a new “live” window featured in Skype. Skypecasts, essentially, are moderated simultaneous discussions of up to 100 people.

As for the new I.T. features, Skype CEO Niklas Zennstrom said in a statement that additions to the service will help companies move beyond their dependence on traditional communications revenue. The I.T. capabilities will let network administrators remotely manage Skype deployments among their end users.

Beyond VoIP

Another new feature in the beta 3.0 version allows users to set up text-based chats with up to 100 Web users, even if they do not have Skype installed.

According to the company, the software upgrades reflect Skype’s recent moves to diversify beyond Internet telephony toward other modes of online communications and to find new revenue streams beyond phone charges.

Skype has about 136 million registered users in 200 countries, and adds about 250,000 registered users every day, according to the company. Its revenue is expected to more than triple this year to $195 million.

// November 11th, 2006