Skype with Video Finally Released on Android

Maybe that title should say, “for select phones?”  Because Skype with Video has definitely been released on Android as of today, but yeah, only a select few devices can apparently enjoy it.  Phones (not tablets) running Android 2.3 and above can download and start blasting out video calls to all of their friends right now – sorry HTC Thunderbolt owners.

And I hate to bring up a sore subject, but I do want to point out that back in March when the Tbolt was announced, it was supposed to be the first device with this installed.  As we all know now though, after 3 or 4 delays, a leak by us, and an acquisition by Microsoft, that never happened.  Since it doesn’t have Android 2.3, you may not even be able to test it.  Here’s to hoping we get that update soon!

So what do we get with this new Skype?  Two-way video calling support (Nexus S, Desire S, Xperia Neo, and Xperia Pro), SMS, and a revamped UI.   

Market Link

Skype brings Video Calling to Android Phones

LUXEMBOURG–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Skype today announced an updated version of its Skype for Android app – Skype for Android 2.0, bringing Skype Video Calling to the currently fastest growing mobile OS¹.

“With approximately 30 million concurrent users logging into Skype at any given time4 and making up to half a million simultaneous video calls5, Skype for Android with video makes it even easier for users to share moments with their contacts wherever they are.”

With the new version, users will be able to make and receive free² 1-to-1 video calls over Skype between their Android phone and other Skype contacts on the iPhone, Mac, Windows PCs and even TVs³. Skype for Android with video works over Wi-Fi or 3G data connections and can be downloaded for free from the Android Market or Skype.com/m using any phone browser.

“We are committed to bring Skype Video Calling to as many platforms as possible and are delighted to deliver on this with our new updated Skype for Android app,” said Neil Stevens, Skype’s vice president and general manager for product and marketing. “With approximately 30 million concurrent users logging into Skype at any given time⁴ and making up to half a million simultaneous video calls⁵, Skype for Android with video makes it even easier for users to share moments with their contacts wherever they are.”

In addition to video calls, users can also make calls to landlines and mobiles around the world, as well as send SMS’s to friends and family anywhere in the world at great Skype rates. All this comes with a complete redesign of the Skype for Android user interface. There’s a new main menu on the Skype app for Android where users can navigate easily through their contacts, access their Skype profile to change personal details or see the balance of their Skype Credit. Finally a new mood message box at the top of the Skype app menu makes it easier than ever for users to share how they are feeling, what they’ve seen, or what they’re up to.

For this first phase of launch, handsets that support video calling include the HTC Desire S, Sony Ericsson Xperia neo, Sony Ericsson Xperia pro and the Google Nexus S.

About Skype

Skype is a communications software whose purpose is to break down barriers to communication. With an Internet-connected device, families, friends and colleagues can get together for free with messaging, voice and video. At low cost, they can also call landlines or mobiles virtually anywhere in the world. Skype has recently introduced group video, allowing groups of more than two people to do things together whenever they’re apart.

Founded in 2003 and based in Luxembourg. Skype can be downloaded onto computers, mobile phones and other connected devices for free at www.skype.com.