Comments on: Should I Try Skype?

By: Rick Thomas

Rick Thomas — Fri, 17 Feb 2006 17:03:00 +0000

Be sure to look at Gizmo too.http://www.gizmoproject.com/Nice cross-platform installs, open standards, and innovative features. Free to cheap too.

By: Ethan

Ethan — Fri, 17 Feb 2006 05:12:00 +0000

I recommend IMing first before “just” dialing up another Skype user. If for no other reason that “showing as online” does not automatically equal “is at one’s desk, or prepared to yak on Skype.”The sound quality varies. Have you downloaded it yet?

By: Kent

Kent — Fri, 17 Feb 2006 03:59:00 +0000

So if someone has Skype and I see a little notice on their website (sort of like Mathew Ingram has) that says available (or whatever the right word is), I can just click on that and dial them up?I assume the sound quality is good?

By: Ethan

Ethan — Fri, 17 Feb 2006 03:04:00 +0000

Another benefit (I have no vested interest in Skype, I am just a lowly user) is that you can use it as an IM client with robust calling features. I use it for IM more than for calling, but it is a great option to switch seamlessly to voice (or even conference) mode when the IM-ing gets to be a bit much.Why not try the download (free) and test it out with some blog pals? I will be happy to help you test it out if you need a willing Skype user.

By: Dane

Dane — Fri, 17 Feb 2006 02:49:00 +0000

Your family doesn’t have to be into new fangled technology to take advantage of Skype. As long as they have a land line you can call them using SkypeOut. It’s not free but it’s really really cheap. Also, if you live far away from the people you want to talk to you can set up a phone number in their area code using SkypeIn. That way they can call you without the long distance charges. Again, this isn’t free but it’s very inexpensive. A flat rate per year, I believe.