Skype for iPhone: Does it Actually Work?

Last week, Skype released a client for the iPhone, and the whole world -- or at least 50 million iPhone users -- can rejoice. With free calls to other Skype users, the new app (available free from the Apple app store or from Skype)is ground-breaking, because it means you can place Internet calls without having to use AT&T carrier service. And, iPod Touch users now have a reliable VoIP (voice over Internet protocol) tool that is a real game-changer. Essentially, Skype turns the iPod Touch into a cell phone, without any carrier service.

Does the client really work? I tested the service over the past week, and found that it is very reliable in specific conditions, for both local calls and international chats. Skype for iPhone does have a few hang-ups though, and not the kind you'd normally hope for from a phone.

Truth be told, all VoIP clients -- such as Google Talk, Vonage, and Gizmo -- require a fast Internet connection running at 3Mbps or more. Your home router also plays an important role. Newer models such as the D-Link DIR-855 and the ZyXEL 550-NH have Quality-of-Service (QoS) features, which smooth voice calls by giving them priority over simple data downloads.

Local calls between Skype users were crystal-clear during most tests, both over a home broadband connection and at a public library. In a few cases, Skype for iPhone would cause a strange delay where the other party had to wait for the audio -- almost like it was held up in traffic. An international call had a similar problem which grew progressively worse. Anytime you call someone who does not use Skype, you'll use Skype Credits you buy at Skype.com -- usually at just a few cents per minute. You also have to pay extra for voice mail and a private number in your own area code.

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Gadgets, Tested, John Brandon, apple, cell phones, computers, gadget news, iphone, skype, voip

The most-publicized downside to the new client is that you can't make a call over iPhone 3G service; it only works over Wi-Fi. If you're connected via 3G, your Skype buddies can see that you're online, but nothing more.

For free, Skype for iPhone is worth the download -- just don't expect miraculous service.