The world’s most popular VoIP client, Skype, has popped up in many mobile guises but never before on mainstream handsets – until now.
Learn how to finally make cheap and free international calls on the fly with this sparkly new mobile app.
Step 1: Sign up to Skype
Before you get over excited and jump the gun, you will need to sign up to a Skype account. It’s free and easy to do, just pop along to www.skype.com and download the app to your PC desktop. If you’re already signed up to the Skype cause then even better. Once you’re all Skyped-up you can then search the worldwide contact database and weed out family and friends to add to your phonebook.
Step 2: Get yourself an unlimited data plan
Sorry there’s more ‘admin’ to carry out before downloading Skype for Mobile. Please make sure you’re subscribed to your operator’s unlimited data plan. Because as Skype makes calls via the network it scoffs data like a champion pie eater, so you’ll be charged for using data whether making calls, sending instant messages or downloading contacts. It’s not essential, but we highly recommend it to avoid fainting with shock when faced with the bill.
Step 3: Get Skype for Mobile on your, er, mobile
Now you can finally plonk Skype on your blower. The app is at the Beta stage, so right now around 50 handsets are compatible. Don’t worry, the list will grow but check your current handset can handle the app to avoid crushing disappointment. Now, point your PC web browser to here (http://www.skype.com/intl/en-gb/download/skype/mobile/) and it will show how easy it is to get the app onto your phone.
Step 4: Make calls to fellow Skype users
Skype for Mobile has landed! You’ll certainly be impressed at how it mimics the desktop version in its usability and features. Once you’ve signed in your username and password, it does the leg work of downloading your contacts and you can fiddle with your status, profile and search for contacts across the globe. It will even let you blather via instant messaging. Now you can make free(ish) calls to fellow Skypians anywhere in the world while on the bounce.
Essential kit
Skype account
Unlimited network data plan
Compatible handset
Make it better with…Skype-out call plans
We already know that apart from a small data charge, making Skype to Skype calls is basically free. But if you keep ringing Uncle Gilberto in Rio on the landline the cost will mount up, so we advise you sign up to one of the Skype-out unlimited monthly international call plans. Here’s the line-up: €2.95 to UK landlines, €3.95 to Europe and €8.95 worldwide.
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