Skype VOIP on the Ipod Touch

Lab Exercise 13: Skype VOIP on the Ipod Touch

The purpose of this exercise is to install Skype on the iPod Touch and make observations of the functions of the Skype software on the iPod Touch as well as on the cell phone, desktop PC, and laptop PC. I am new to Skype and have never used it before. For the purpose of this assignment I created an account, and I actually look forward to using the account I created in the future. Many people I know use Skype and it seems as if I am the only one that doesn't use it.

From what I observed, Skype offers various features and is a very convenient method to communicate with people who live in another city or in another country. My group members for this assignment were Tim and Taylor and together we discussed the advantages, disadvantages, and various functions of the software.

I installed Skype on the iPod Touch and my group and I were able to make phone calls but the phone calls were not able to go through since the iPod Touch does not have a microphone or speakers. You cannot use video calling on the iPod Touch. The advantage of using Skype on the desktop PC or laptop PC is that you can use video calling. With video calling you can see the person you are talking to through a web camera. On the desktop PC or laptop PC you can do skype-to skype calls, video calls, skype-to skype conference calls, and instant messaging (just to name a few features). However, not all these features are available through the iPod touch.

You can make Skype calls from any phone. You can set up a Skype To Go number and make calls to mobiles and landlines abroad from any phone. The advantages is that they offer really inexpensive rates to make calls out of country. You can also make calls for free in the U.S; there is also a free trial period you can use. Sending text messages via Skype is also cheaper then sending text messages from a mobile service. You can also have an online number and receive calls from landlines and mobiles with a desktop PC or laptop PC. Skype offers numbers available in over 25 countries. Also, friends in the same country as your number only pay a local rate to call you and you pay nothing to answer the call.

Overall, I would definitely use Skype again but not on the iPod touch. I would definitely use it on my PC laptop or desktop. I don't like the disadvantage that the iPod does not allow for video calling. That was the biggest disadvantage. There are many more features available with a laptop or desktop.