I understand Skype on a computer or phone, but I don't understand the benefit of a Skype client for the iPad where there already exists an integrated video chat solution in the shape of FaceTime.
Unless, that is, it offers the capability to interface with non iOS devices, such as Skype compatible Android phones or Windows PCs.
I'm not surprised they haven't bothered until now, otherwise.
That's the plan. FaceTime will be licensable for use in other applications. Not sure what the holdup is, though.
Has there ever been a definitive answer on whether iPhone Skype draws down your battery in the background if youre simply available to receive calls?
Ive seen a handful of convincing posts around the web (and on Skypes blog) in either direction. Some say Skype doesnt use push notification to receive a call; instead the app must actually remain running (using battery and RAM). Others deny that (and I hope theyre right), or they (incorrectly) say iOS has no way to receive a call notification if the app isnt running. (iOS does have a background VOIP ability, but thats important when IN a call. Not necessary just to get invitations/notifications before VOIP is active.)
True of false? Is this a fire or only smoke? Was this a real problem but later patched? I dont use Skype enough to know first-hand or test easily, but Id still like to leave myself available full-time just in case someone ever wants to Skype me.
Closing the Skype app in the switcher bar and seeing if you can still receive a call would be the test, I suppose. I can still get Meebo chat requests without Meebo running, and then Meebo launches when the communication is accepted. Im hoping Skype works the same! No need for it to be running when youre NOT communicating.
Facetime biggest problem is that it will be tied to Apple products only. Since it is not cross platform that is it biggest failing and why I do not see it really gaining any real traction.
I hate how slow skype are to incorporate new features, like simple things such as multitasking and retina display it took them 6 months to release an update with these features, also something like videochatting it took them 8 months to release the update, now with the whole thing for the ipad its been 3 months since the ipad 2 was released, i guess theyre starting to improve their release dates.
Is english your second language? If Apple licenses facetime then it will work with non-Apple products from companies that have paid a license for it. That is what the person you were replying to said.Facetime biggest problem is that it will be tied to Apple products only. Since it is not cross platform that is it biggest failing and why I do not see it really gaining any real traction.
I understand Skype on a computer or phone, but I don't understand the benefit of a Skype client for the iPad where there already exists an integrated video chat solution in the shape of FaceTime.
Unless, that is, it offers the capability to interface with non iOS devices, such as Skype compatible Android phones or Windows PCs.
I'm not surprised they haven't bothered until now, otherwise.
i hate how companies like skype and fring always fakes the quality of the video calls in their stock photos and videos, it will never be like that, it looks like its super clear HD, thats BS the ipad 2's cameras are never going to reach the quality that skype is claiming to have in its videos.
Hey Editors,
I am sorry but I feel the article title is either incomplete, or misleading.
I have Skype on the iPhone4, and iPad2, and both have video capabilities. I am not sure why it says "bringing to.." when it clearly already has.
Users are also commenting they are welcoming to finally have video on the ipad, which confuses me, as it .. already has.
The article should be about either how high the quality in the demo is - since the camera is just crap on the iPad2, or at least be about it finally being a NATIVE app ..
It's a bit misleading that it mentions iOS Skype has voice chat and voice calling, but leaves out video, as if it doesn't have it.
I've just opened my iPhone Skype version on the iPad2 and called myself on my other Skype account - a video call .. You can see the screens to demo this; showing the not-ios-native app to clearly have video capabilities already; which in my opinion means I am either confused, misread your titles, or the title shouldn't imply video is new, but that the app being native is new.
Skype is a great app, I use it daily, I video chat daily, but their implementation and support is just f* horrible. A native app is welcomed, but way over due, and hopefully it won't be the last version and Microsoft respects those millions of Mac users. (Side note: version 5 is HORRIBLE).
Linked: screenshot of video already working just fine on ipad2 ..
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/693961/skype_ios_ipad2_videocall_to_my_macpro_clearly_works.jpeg
This is what I was waiting for .... I almost gave up hope after MS bought Skype ... I can reach all my friends/family on skype, but only half of them on FaceTime.
That's the iPhone version running on an iPad.