Skype to add Wi-Fi, 3G video calling to iPhone app
Skype has announced that the new version of its iPhone application adds video call support, allowing users to make video calls over 3G and Wi-Fi networks. The announcement suggests that users of the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch are now able to make and/or receive free video calls with one another, as well as with anyone else running Skype software that supports video calling.
According to Neil Stevens, General Manager of Skype’s consumer business, with video calling representing approximately 40% of all Skype-to-Skype minutes for the first six months of 2010, our users have been eager to get Skype video calling on their mobile phones. By bringing video to mainstream users at their home or work via their desktops, on the go with their mobiles, or into their living room via their TV, Skype has made it possible for millions of people to share video moments wherever they are.
The new Skype for iPhone app will be able to make and receive video calls with the iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, and 4th generation iPod touch with i0S 4.0 or above. The iPad and 3rd generation iPod touch are now able to receive, not send, video calls. Calls can be made between any device using the new Skype for iPhone app and desktop computers including Skype for Windows 4.2 and above, Skype for Mac 2.8 and above, Skype for Linux, and the ASUS Videophone.
Video calls use QVGA video and are reported to average 15 frames per second on received video and 12 frames per second on sent video. But these numbers are very much dependent on the quality of the 3G or Wi-Fi environment being used to make and receive the video calls.
According to a representative from Skype, mobile is a huge priority for them and you will see a lot more updates on the mobile front including Android in the New Year.
T-Mobile launches an array of Android smartphone
T-Mobile has launched an array of Android smartphone. The company launched MyTouch 4G, Comet, Motorola Defy and the LG Optimus T.
The T-Mobile MyTouch 4G features Android 2.2 the Qualcomm MSM8255 Scorpion core running at 1GHz, a 3.8 inch WVGA resolution display, front-facing camera for video calls, microSDHC expansion slot with 8GB pre-installed memory card and a dual-core processor. Other specifications call for Wi-Fi radio, updated Genius button functionality and Qik access for video calls. Pricing is set at $249.99 with 2 year contract before an additional $50 mail-in rebate, bringing the total to $199.99.
The Defy features an M810F bodyshell with a scratch resistant 3.7 inch capacitive WVGA resolution display. DLNA support, 5.0 megapixel autofocus camera with LED flash and the MOTOBLUR UI overlay round out the specifications along with CrystalTalkPLUS support, Bluetooth with stereo audio support, microSDHC expansion slot and Android 2.1. The handset will cost $99.99 after a new 2 year contract and rebate.
The Optimus T comes with a 600 MHz processor, 3.2-inch touch screen display and a 3.2 megapixel camera with video capture. The phone features Voice Actions for Android pre-loaded, the LG Optimus T also allows commands through voice control, such as calling, texting, e-mailing and navigating to a specific destination. It will also be available in a burgundy or titanium finish. The cost for the handset is set at $29.99 with a new 2 year contract.
The Comet features the complete Google Experience with technical specifications consisting of a 2.8-inch QVGA resolution capacitive touch display and a 528MHz processor, 3.2-megapixel camera with video recorder, 3.5mm headphone jack, FM radio and a microSD slot. The handset also includes HSDPA support, Wi-Fi and radio, GPS support, and Bluetooth. The cost of the handset set at $9.99 with a new 2 year contract and rebates.
Find the colors of the ocean in ‘Ascent Ti Neon’
Here comes a mobile phone, inspired by the colours of the ocean. We are talking about the new Ascent Ti Neon that comes with rubber on the back instead of the leather of the regular Ascent Ti, in a choice of four colours: green, orange, pink and white. What makes the phone so expensive could be attributed to its titanium chassis.
Providing a talk time of 4.5 hours (GSM) and a standby time of around 400 hours, the phone supports the quad band GSM coverage and WCDMA2100 throughout the world.
Ascent Ti Neon has a QVGA display, 4GB of internal memory, 3MP camera and supports Bluetooth interface.
Not to forget to mention, the phone comes with a high performance hands free loudspeaker.
The phone will go on sale in October and will cost nearly $9,900.
Gigabyte Codfish to hit the market soon
The G1305, more curiously known as the Codfish is all set to hit the market very soon. The model is packed with features like 5 megapixel camera, 3.2” touchscreen and Android 1.6. However the pricing is still not available.
The other rumored GSmart handset of Gigabyte seems like it will be a little brother with features like 2.8” QVGA display, a 2 megapixel camera, and no 3G. it is also expected that the model will be under the supposed 200 WUR price point and that being said, the Codfish can be expected to be a bit costlier.
If both the sets are launched in tandem then the G1305 can be seen as soon as the end of the month.
Given the history with unrelated hardware, like motherboards and PCs, the entry of Gigabyte into the market is interesting. But it’s a transition that Acer seems to have comfortably made.
