Land-lines are really becoming antiquated. It seems that everyone now has a cell phone and fast internet (sometimes both in one package), and when you have a fast internet connection, you can make free or cheap video/phone calls, thanks to internet telephone services like Skype.
Who could have imagined that the developers behind KaZaA, the controversial file sharing app that got numerous housewives and children in legal trouble, would go on to develop a legitimate, hugely successful, world-wide, life-changing app like Skype? In fact, Skype uses the P2P technology at its base, instead of the traditional client-server method.
Part of Skype's success is due to it's simplicity and non-technical front-end to a highly technical product. Countless parents and grandparents around the world have even learned to use Skype, in order to keep in touch with their children in other parts of the world. There are numerous imitators and worthwhile alternatives, but Skype is by far the most successful of all internet telephone services - it is now the largest international voice carrier.
Skype-to-Skype calls are free, and Skype-to-phone calls are very reasonably rated. Right now you can sign up for unlimited calls between the U.S. and Canada for $2.95/month, or from the U.S. to a single country (many choices available) for $5.95/month, or world-wide for $12.95/month. Much cheaper than the phone cards I used to buy at college.
Development is motivated and focused on making Skype better for its users, and the voice and video quality is constantly improved. Skype may be a little bloated, but the bloat is worthwhile, at least until a new controversial developer churns out something revolutionary all over again.
Download latest version:
Skype v4.1.0.179
Mac version: v2.8.0.851 -- Linux version: v2.1.0.81 beta
* Images courtesy of Skype.com
| Homepage: | http://www.skype.com/ |
| Supported OS: |    |
| Portable version: |  (Unofficial) |
| 64-bit version: | |
| Active project: |  |
| No strings attached **: | Don't install "Extras Manager", browser plugins |
** No spyware, ads, nags, registration reminders, etc.
