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All signs have been pointing to this release for a few days now, but
we'll admit: we expected Skype to wait until CES next week to pull the
covers off what could become its crown jewel service over the coming
months. Skype's official iOS client has finally sprouted the ability
to make video calls, allowing iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, and fourth-
generation iPod touch users to share real-time video amongst each
other and users of Skype's Windows, Mac, and Linux clients along with
the ASUS Videophone (obviously, 3GS users won't have the convenience
of a front-facing camera, but they'll still be able to broadcast video
from the rear-facing one). Additionally, you'll be able to receive
video from others if you're using an iPad or a third-generation iPod
touch. The service is free and works over both WiFi and 3G -- and
considering Skype's existing PC footprint, we'd argue this stands a
very real chance of putting the hurt on FaceTime usage. No word on
when Skype will be making video-capable clients available for Android
or other mobile platforms, but Skype says that there'll be "plenty
more" announcements in Vegas next week, so we wouldn't be surprised.
Update: So we just gave 3.0 a spin, calling iPhone-to-iPhone (both
WiFi), iPhone-to-desktop (both WiFi), and again iPhone-to-iPhone (both
3G). The first two worked great, although the desktop camera produced
better quality. As for the worst-case scenario, 3G-to-3G video
calling, well... we wouldn't recommend it unless absolutely necessary.
Video after the break, and be sure to note the battery life -- after
about 10 minutes of use, we dropped from 66 percent to 61.
[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
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