Skype

Skype was founded in 2003 initially as an instant messaging site; was bought by Ebay in 2005 and video chat was added by the end of that year. By the April of 2006 Skype had already accumulated 100 million registered users; the unique selling point of Skype being the ability to make free calls to other Skype users, all around the world. This meant that even international calls were free, as long as both users were using Skype.

One of the most appealing features of Skype is the video chat; users can use webcam or the camera on their mobile phone to project images to each other, accompanying live audio chat via microphones. Video calling is also free, no matter where you are in the world, and enables you to talk with loved ones from the comfort of your own home, without having to pay a penny. Also the clarity of the picture when using video chat is very high, images are not blurred and lagging is very uncommon, making Skype a reliable choice for regular users. This video feature is extremely popular among all users as it not only allows them to talk face to face with people far away but it's also available wherever you are via Skype Mobile.

Skype offers extremely reasonable rates for your mobile for overseas calling; for under £10 a month you can make unlimited calls to landlines and/or mobiles all over the world. And for only £5 a month you can make calls to all of Europe. Also you can send SMSs at a much lower rate- texting as far as the USA will cost you less than a penny, whilst using other mobile tariffs can cost up to 50p per text. You can also buy 'Skype Credit', this credit can be used to call landlines and mobiles, send text messages or even to purchase a Skype mobile number so that non Skype users can ring your Skype number. This credit remains in your account for 180 days after the last action on your account, then it is wiped- therefore you should ensure to send an SMS or make a phone call at least every 6 months to keep their balance untouched.

The text instant messaging system that accompanies the video chat feature is also very useful bother on it's own and in conjunction with the video calling. It is especially useful when you want to share things such as a URL or send files to the person you are talking to.  There is also a tool that shows you when the other person is typing to ensure you don't both speak at the same time and end up in a confusing conversation. The text IM feature is useful in situations where it just isn't convenient to talk out loud; such as on public transport or in a quiet office; the use of text only chat eradicates the need for noise, and allows silent communication.

However there have been some negative comments about Skype on the Internet; the main source of a problem seems to be Skype's lack of a contact telephone number, or any other means of official direct communication, to report any malfunctions with the site or any personal problems that may occur. For example many errors with billing have been mentioned, customers have been overcharged or charged for incorrect transactions and have had no means of reporting the problem and to receive refunds.

Advantages:

• Calls are free from Skype to Skype and extremely less expensive from Skype to phone
• You can hold conference calls with up to five people all across the world
• You can send files and photos whilst conducting a video call at the same time
• Allows you to purchase credit so you can use this when calling phones
• Skype has made communication easier breaking down the usual problems as time, distance and money.

Disadvantages:

• If using Skype on a bad connection, the images sent are often slow and out of sync with the voice call
• Need equipment; such as a web cam and microphone, to use the programme
• No good Skype customer service

Skype news stories:

http://www.jconline.com/article/20100831/LIFE03/8310301

Man sees the birth of his first child in the USA all the way from the army barracks where he is stationed in Iraq via Skype.