Skype Unveils Mac Video Version
September 17th, 2006 - Posted in VoIPInternet communications company Skype has released Skype for Mac 2.0, a beta version of its video calling software for Apple’s Mac systems. The new version is intended to streamline video conferencing between PCs and Macs.
According to Skype, which provides free or low-cost calls over the Internet, the offering is the first ever that allows Mac users to connect through video with Windows users without having to download additional software.
Skype for Mac 2.0 users will be able to make video calls at no cost to other Mac users as well as PC users. The previous release, Skype for Mac 1.5, did not have video call support.
“We decided to develop products for the Mac because our overall objective is to allow the entire world to talk for free, regardless of platform,” said Stephanie Zari, a Skype spokesperson. “Skype is also one of the only applications on the market today that allows for voice, text and video communication between Mac and Windows users. Finally, because we are huge Mac fans here at Skype.”
Video Star
With the new utility, Mac users can make video calls to either a Mac or Windows platform, and view other callers within a special Skype window. The application also includes a small window so users can see how they look to the person who is viewing them.
To make video calls, Skype for Mac requires Mac
OS X v10.3.9 Panther or newer, as well as a G4, G5, or Intel processor that runs at a minimum of 800 MHz.
Skype’s goal is to make Internet calling streamlined and simple, noted Stefan Oberg, director of product management for Skype, since the company’s community is made up of both Mac and Windows users. Owned by eBay, Skype notes that it has more than 113 million users worldwide.
Calls to traditional and mobile phones can be made at low rates, the company noted, but Skype for Mac 2.0 users can make free calls to other Skype users, no matter where they are.
Eye to Eye
Mac users do have some other options for video conferencing, but the technology has more limitations than the Skype software.
Apple’s iChat program enables video conferencing, but works best when employed with other Mac users.
Two years ago, Apple and AOL partnered on making the iChat technology work with AIM, but the most recent version of the instant messaging application supports only calls among AOL users.
“Our aim is that Mac users can talk for free with everyone they know regardless of whether they’re on Mac, Windows,
Linux or on a regular phone,” said Zari. “We hope that the ability to talk to anyone in the world will be a useful supplement to their iChat service.”
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