[LINK] Skype beta3, free worldwide conference calls

[Ivan Trundle]

On 09/11/2006, at 2:50 PM, stephen at melbpc.org.au wrote:

> Now, free worldwide computer to computer conference calls
>
> Media Release: SKYPE 3.0 BETA BRINGS THE GLOBAL COMMUNITY TOGETHER
>
> http://about.skype.com/2006/11/skype_30_beta_brings_the_globa.html
>
> LUXEMBOURG, November 8, 2006 – Skype today released the latest  
> version of
> its software, Skype 3.0 Beta for Windows. Skype users across the world
> can now enjoy even simpler and easier ways to talk to one another with
> new features that enable community-led chat and discussion.

This is what bugs me about Skype. Firstly, Windows users are the only  
ones to get improvements of any value. Mac users are always one full  
version behind, and Linux users often more so. Oddly, though, I use  
Skype for conference calls all of the time (but not large groups -  
the sound quality drops after 6 people join the conversation). But  
this aside, why can't they match features cross-platform?

Secondly, they rarely consult with users to determine what features  
they would like (Mac users don't need video (they have it already  
elsewhere), but really, really want the ability to send SMS messages  
(which is a revenue earner for Skype, which the programmers  
acknowledge). Still waiting.

I'm also one of the many users who have seen their credits disappear,  
and with no recourse. I still use Skype, but glumly accept that  
credit payments that 'go missing' (yet are drawn from my bank  
account) are a form of 'paying' for use of 'free' software. Don't get  
me started about all of the 'free offers' - it seems as though we are  
too far removed in Australia to benefit.

iT