In a much-hoped for move, Skype and Skype Out now work with 3G, at least on the iPhone and iPad. The bad news is that Skype-to-Skype calls on 3G will cost you money (after a free period that lasts through at least August, and maybe through the end of the year).
In an upgrade to the iPhone / iPad app over this past weekend, Skype announced that “Upgrades and improvements include call using your 3G connection. Skype-to-Skype calls on 3G are free until the end of 2010, after which there will be a small monthly fee. (Operator charges for data will still apply.)”
With respect to when the fees for Skype-to-Skype calls over 3G kick in, there is some confusion, as upon first use, the upgraded Skype says that they will begin in August, even though the app store listing says they will be free until the end of the year.
There was no information on what the cost for Skype over 3G calls to land lines and other phones is, however our tests indicate that the normal Skype out charges apply.
So how’s the quality? Pretty darned good, in our tests. Still not, on the iPad, enough to get us to ditch our cell phone though, as you still can’t use a standard Bluetooth headset with the iPad (only stereo Bluetooth headsets, which don’t easily fit in a purse or pocket, work with the iPad).
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Still, this is a big step forward in the removal of restrictions on the technology.
The Internet Patrol is completely free, and we don't subject you to ads or annoying video pop-ups. But it does cost us out of our pocket to keep the site going (going on 20 years now!) So your tips via CashApp, Venmo, or Paypal are appreciated!
Receipts will come from ISIPP.