Skype works over WiFi!

Yes, I absolutely meant to end that with an exclamation point. From day one that I downloaded Skype on my Droid, I have been frustrated by the fact that it would only work over 3G and not over WiFi. Finally, the cries of many have been answered.

According to Android Central, and verified by my download from the Android Market, the newest version of Skype for Android allows for simultaneous WiFi and 3G connections. No more disabling your WiFi just to run Skype!

The caveat, of course, is that it’s still only for Verizon users (for now). But if you’re paying your monthly dues to the big red V, you should head to the Android Market and get to updating.

Not a Skype-killer, but still a viable option

On the huge news today of Google allowing for voice calls from Gmail, the immediate target in the Google crosshairs has to be none other than Skype. In fact, the target is so well laid that Google went so far as to provide a comparison chart of pricing to an unnamed “leading internet telephony provider”:

The problem, of course, isn’t with the money. The problem is with the users.

By The Numbers

We’ve talked before about Google’s slow roll out times on services. With today’s launch, we’re also told that once again US users will have the Google Calls service before the rest of the world.

While Gmail might very well be pushing 200 million users worldwide, that’s a far cry even by itself from Skype’s 590 million. And even that is not bearing in mind that only a percentage of Gmail’s 200 million can even use the service.

The Struggle With Anonymity

It may seem a strange thing, but I rather like the somewhat-anonymous quality of Skype. I can easily create a throw-away account, not having to worry about anything being related to it because of some internal structure. Doing that with Gmail is another story.

There’s also the issue of Google calls using my Google Voice number for outbound calls. Though that number is publicly available all over the Internet, part of the reason that I prefer Skype at present is because I can still stay behind my somewhat-impenetrable wall of a 2nd account without anyone knowing who is attached to it.

I use my Google Voice account for business, but I don’t always talk to people over Skype with whom I’d be comfortable giving my phone number. For me, though it’s not a major issue with Google calls, it is still a concern.

The Matter of Convenience

What Google does have going for it, however, is unmatched convenience. Essentially, where ever I feel comfortable logging into my Gmail account, I’ll be able to make a Google call. There is no need to download and set up Skype. That’s a welcome convenience for certain.

Skype iPhone App Updated for Multitasking

It’s here! Run Skype in the background with multitasking in iOS4 with fast switching. Receive Skype calls and IM while other apps are running or even when your iPhone is locked. You can also continue your call while you switch to another application. Huge.What’s more Skype has released a statement saying it no longer plan to charge (now or in the future) for calls on 3G. Lets hope it sticks to its word.Multitasking is available only with iPhone 4 and iPhone 3GS.

;