In a bid to make it accessible to a broad range of mobile users, Skype has launched a new low Bandwidth version of it in the market. It will enable telcos to offer the service even if they don’t offer 3G services.
Known as Mobile Partner Program, the new Skype program is a simplified operator program that utilises a purpose built client/server solution.
The solution developed specifically for operators, enables use of Skype on a broad range of handsets including smartphones and ordinary feature phones. Optimised for efficient bandwidth usage, it keeps users connected with minimal impact on battery life and data usage.
Operators, using the program, can offer their customers a fast, easy Skype experience that runs on a range of OS platforms covering more than 100 different smartphone and feature phone handsets.
Through Skype, customers can make free calls and send instant messages to other Skype users. In addition, users can make calls to mobile phones and landlines virtually anywhere in the world at very low rates.
“We see a growing demand for differentiated services from mobile operators across the world,” said Russ Shaw, vice president and general manager of mobile at Skype. “Our mobile operator program will give operators in emerging markets the possibility to tap into the global Skype community while providing a great user experience on a variety of mobile handsets.”
Skype has been getting increasingly popular with users, and it recently hit the record number of 29,527,474 users logged into the Skype ecosystem simultaneously. With the popularity of Skype, the ability to communicate even in a low 3G penetration area, Skype is poised to grow further but it can only happen if service providers take full use of this program.