Skype Mobile with Video Support to Make Its Way to All Android Phones This Year
For many of you, Skype signing an exclusivity deal with Verizon (even while keeping their iPhone version of the app alive for AT&T) for the Skype Mobile app was a huge disappointment. It looks like Skype’s ambitions are finally going to extend past just one carrier, though, and it’s thanks to the prospect that is video calling.
When asked if they would be providing a Skype client for phones on other carriers such as the HTC EVO 4G with a front-facing camera, Skype responded saying that they’re “betting big on video” and they’ll be doing that this year.
We’re betting big on video, and we intend to set the bar on mobile video calling, and it’s something we’re going to do this year.
We will be bringing a direct to consumer app to the Android marketplace later this year. This application will be available for all consumers globally to download regardless of carriers. (i.e. similar to how we offer the iPhone app today)
– Brianna Reynaud, Skype PR
Hopefully “later this year” turns out to be sooner rather than later as I’m sure many users can’t wait to get back one of the most important apps they’ve installed on their devices.