Skype announced the availability of Skype™ 1.0 Beta for
Intel-based Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs). This new version of Skype
software is the result of working with Intel Corporation to develop a
new mobile Skype experience for MIDs based on the Intel® Atom™ processor
and Moblin-based Linux OS (www.moblin.org).
MIDs are an emerging category of small, truly mobile consumer devices
enabling a rich Internet experience, coupled with the capability to
communicate with others, enjoy entertainment, access information, and be
productive on the go – all without sacrificing mobility or performance.
MIDs typically come with 4”-7” screens, a camera, GPS and WiFi
connectivity. Select MIDs also provide WiMax or 3G/4G support for
wireless broadband connectivity on-the-go. ABI Research expects 86
million Linux-enabled MIDs to ship by 2013.
Skype 1.0 Beta for MIDs empowers these devices with a rich
communications capability through a new, optimized interface which is
designed to deliver a great experience and fast, smooth kinetic
scrolling support on the touch screen displays of MIDs. The software
enables you to make free Skype-to-Skype voice and video calls to
anywhere in the world, in addition to cheap calls to landlines and
mobiles. It also includes instant messaging, group IM, SMS, call
forwarding, voicemail, presence (seeing when your contacts are online)
and the ability to receive calls from other Skype users or to your
personal online number. MIDs’ faster performance and wireless
connectivity also enable Skype users to experience an excellent mobile
video calling experience.
“Today’s introduction of the first, complete Internet communications
offering for MIDs bridges the gap between the phone and PC and
underscores our vision of ‘Skype everywhere’ and our commitment to open
access,” said Scott Durchslag, Skype’s Chief Operating Officer. “By
supporting WiFi, WiMax, 3G and 4G, this development expands Skype’s
mobile portfolio and further illustrates the broad accessibility to
Skype that we offer on a multitude of mobile devices.”
“Mobile Internet Devices enable users to enjoy the full Internet
experience and stay connected with their friends and family wherever
they go,” said Pankaj Kedia, director of global ecosystem programs in
the Ultra Mobility Group at Intel Corporation. “Our collaboration with
Skype to deliver Skype 1.0 Beta for Mobile Internet Devices based on the
Intel® Atom™ processor and Moblin-based Linux OS will provide new ways
for users to communicate anywhere, anytime.”
Skype is working with Intel to deliver its application software for MIDs
through Original Device Manufacturers (ODMs) and Original Equipment
Manufacturers (OEMs). By offering the Skype software on their devices,
device manufacturers can provide consumers with an array of rich
internet communications experiences – instant messaging, group IM, voice
and video calls – right out of the box.
The Beta version of Skype software for Intel-based MIDs was announced
during a press conference this morning and will also be on display at
Skype’s booth during ShowStoppers@CES 2009 at the Wynn Las Vegas Hotel
from 6-10 PM PST on Thursday, January 8, 2009.
For more information about Intel Mobile Internet Devices, please visit www.intel.com/products/mid.
For more information about Skype 1.0 Beta for Mobile Internet Devices,
please visit skype.com.
About Skype
Founded in 2003, Skype is revolutionizing the way people communicate
around the world. Skype has more than 370 million registered users
globally who use Skype software to communicate for free through voice
and video calls as well as instant messages. Skype generates revenue
through its premium offerings, such as calls made to and from landlines
and mobiles, voicemail, call forwarding, and SMS. Skype is used in
almost every country on Earth, and people have made more than 100
billion minutes worth of free Skype-to-Skype calls. Conversations over
Skype can take place on computers, mobile devices and Skype Certified™
hardware. Skype certifies and sells hundreds of hardware products from
more than 50 partners, and works with hundreds of third-party developers
who have created plug-ins to extend Skype’s functionality.
Skype is an eBay company (NASDAQ: EBAY). Learn more and download Skype
at www.skype.com.
Access to a broadband Internet connection is required. Skype is not a
replacement for your traditional telephone service and cannot be used
for emergency calling.
Skype, associated trademarks and logos and the “S” symbol are
trademarks of Skype Limited. Intel is a trademark of Intel Corporation
in the United States and other countries.
