Skype Enables Video Calls on Android Phones

Skype, a VoIP company that has revolutionized how people connect with one another around the world, on Thursday announced that smartphone users can make and receive one-to-one video calls between their Android phone and other Skype contacts on an iPhone, Mac, Windows PCs and televisions.

The Luxembourg-based company, which is being acquired by Microsoft in an $8.5 billion deal, introduced an updated version of its Skype for Android app.

With approximately 30 million concurrent users logging into Skype at any given time and making up half a million simultaneous video calls, Skype for Android with video makes it even easier to share moments with their contacts wherever they are,” said Neil Stevens, Skypes vice president and general manager for product and marketing.

Skype says users can make free video calls, although the company cautioned in a footnote that additional data charges may apply. Handsets that support video include the HTC Desire S, Sony Ericsson Xperia neo, Sony Ericsson Xperio pro and the Google Nexus S.

Users also can make calls to landline and mobile phones around the world and send SMSs to friends and family based on rates that can be found here.

Skype said it has redesigned its Android interface with a new main menu that allows users to navigate easily through contacts, access their profile to change personal information or see the balance of their Skype Credit.