First Look: Skype For iPad
August 2, 2011
After an interesting false start, it’s finally here: Skype for iPad. And this is AppAdvice’s first look at this amazing product.
Available using both Wi-Fi and 3G, Skype for iPad makes video and voice calling easier than ever on Apple’s tablet device. Best of all, the app (like the service itself) allows you to talk to users on Android and Windows devices as well.
Once logged in, the app reveals a stack of contacts, organized by source, such as All Contacts, Skype Contacts, and iPad Contacts.
From there, clicking on the appropriate box shows you the full list of contacts by that source.
This setup looks a lot like Apple’s own Photo app and works the same way. This fact makes learning to use Skype for iPad that much easier, especially for those new to Skype, but familiar with how the iPad operates.
Finally, tapping on a contact reveals more information about the person including ways to initiate a voice or video call, chat, or SMS.
Other findings worth mentioning:
- When making a video call, you’ll soon recognized that the video quality is quite impressive. In fact, we feel it compares to, or is slightly better than what you’ll find using Apple’s own Facetime app.
- Skype for iPad will also let you call landlines and cell phones, assuming you have Skype Credit.
- Plus, and this is probably most important for many, the app will run in the background once you login. This means never missing a Skype call even when you’re doing something else on your iPad.
- Finally, and this should be obvious, the app’s send and receive video feature only works for those customers using an iPad 2. However, first generation iPad owners can still receive videos from others, which is a nice touch.
