Skype video calling comes to Android smartphones

30 Jun 2011

Android smartphone users no longer need to look enviously at their friends’ iPhones with Facetime – now Android users can make two-way video calls on their devices.

But even better – they can do a video call to any other device, whether the user is using an iPhone, a Mac, a Windows PC or even a TV equipped with Skype functionality.

The new Skype for Android app also allows users to send SMS messages to friends anywhere in the world at Skype rates.

Skype says that in order to enjoy two-way video call on your Android device, it must be running Android Version 2.3 and above with a front-facing camera.

Supported handsets right now that allow video calling include the HTC Desire S, Sony Ericsson Xperia neo, Sony Ericsson Xperia pro and the Google Nexus S.

The company promises more Android handsets will be able to download the app (accessible via the QR code below) in the coming months.

QR code for Skype Android app

John Kennedy is a journalist who served as editor of Silicon Republic for 17 years

editorial@siliconrepublic.com