14 DAY TRIAL // The iPad-optimized version of Skype iOS has been let loose in the Apple App Store, following a temporary discontinuation of the app.
Released ‘prematurely’ and then pulled, the Skype for iPad application is now officially live in the App Store where customers can download the tablet-optimized software free of charge.
It lets you do video chats, instant-message your friends, and more, all for free. As usual, customers who wish to employ Skype to call landlines and cell phone numbers can do so for an added fee.
“Bring your Skype contacts closer with full screen video at your fingertips,” reads the official description. “Beautiful and simple, this is Skype built especially for the iPad.”
The app lets you reach your friends on their iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, PC, Mac and even Skype enabled TVs.
“Call, video call, or instant message anyone on Skype. Plus, if you add a little Skype Credit, call landlines and mobiles at really low rates,” the developers note.
Upon launching the app (and logging in) for the first time, iPad owners will see their Skype contacts automatically displayed on the tablet’s 10-inch screen.
Adding new Skype contacts is easier now. Once someone has been added to your Contact list, you can call, video-call or IM them in one touch, according to the developers.
Users can flick through recent calls and instant messages to check out their history. The app works over Wi-Fi as well as 3G.
Before taking to the App Store, readers should take a moment to sift through the system requirements and see if they match their existing hardware and software.
System requirements: • Skype video calling requires iOS 4.0 or above. • Send and receive video using front or back camera on iPhone 4, iPad 2nd Generation, and iPod touch 4th Generation. • Send and receive video using rear camera on iPhone 3GS. • Receive video only on iPad 1st Generation and iPod touch 3rd Generation. • Works with any H264 compatible devices, including TVs.