A Skype application for the Blackberry that works? Maybe?
May 11, 2007 by Tris Hussey
Filed under Jobs
I saw this a few days ago and have held off writing about this Skype for Blackberry app until I had some time to play with it:
IM+ for Skype Software by SHAPE Services is a mobile client for Skype Software. It enables voice and text communication with other Skype users as well as cost-effective calling to landline or mobile connections. IM+ for Skype Software uses SkypeOut credits for voice communication ensuring cost- effective calls to any number around the globe. For users of Skype Unlimited plan (only USD 29.95 per year) IM+ enables almost free calling from a BlackBerry smartphone to any PC with Skype or any landline/mobile number. All you need is a BlackBerry smartphone and IM+ for Skype Software installed.
Source: Experience Mobility » Blog Archive » IM+ for Skype Software Debuts see also Crunch Gear
Skype is my primary business IM client. Gtalk hangs around because until now it was the only one I could get on my Berry for free. I’ve been looking for a real MSN client (RIM has developed one, but it isn’t available for all carriers) without much success. A Skype client? That would be awesome. Well, the search might be over. This is heavy on the might part. IM+ for Skype is a pretty basic app. Shape Services clearly wanted to tap into the Skype calling features instead of just looking at IM. I haven’t tried calling, just IM at this point. IM+ For Skype isn’t free, either, I’m running a 7 day trial of it.
I’m going to give it a lukewarm thumbs up right now. The IM side could be a lot better. I’d like to see people’s real names and not Skype names. I’d also like better sorting (I have a ton of contacts in Skype), but my main gripe might not be their fault at all–network setup. IM+ has a simple auto-config tool, which consistently fails for me, but I can still connect, only to have to go through the process again when I reopen it (you can send it to the background or close when hitting the esc key in the contact list). Trying to listen to a sound crashes the app on my 7130e. Not a big deal. Annoying, yes, however.
So the network problem. No, I don’t know what’s up and no I haven’t had a chance to send info to the developers about it. I’m betting it’s just something on the Telus network. Now, if I can get it all figured out…I’m pretty sure I’ll be buying the app. I really don’t care about calling … the IM alone will be great.
But how about the cost. Skype runs online and needs banwith. How much is this really going to cost?
Rodrigo, That is an excellent point. Mobile data charges can be extreme.
I’m lucky that I have an unlimited data plan, but I did notice that Skype for Berry sent a lot of data back and forth constantly.
Well, my problem with this app – it doesn’t support skype chat with multiple people. W/o it, it make application unsusable for me.
Actually, something better is called iskoot. It’s free and works great. It connects to a local number instead of using your bandwidth. The only time it uses your data plan is when it updates the contact list and for chat. I love it.