Skype video calling finally lands on Android

App now on a par with iOS version

Skype video calling finally lands on Android. android apps, mobile phone apps, skype, Skype for Android, Video conferencing, 0

30 June 2011 11:44 GMT / By Paul Lamkin

Skype for Android has received a major update bringing with it a long overdue addition - video calling.

The mobile video calling option, which was afforded to iOS users back in December last year, is part of the Skype for Android 2.0 update, which is live in the Android Market now.

Like the iPhone version, it allows video calling over both 3G and Wi-Fi but if you are going to use it when you're not connected to a WLAN beware of eating into your data allowance - some testing last year on the iOS app revealed that it uses around 3.4MB per minute.

As well as the video calling feature, Skype for Android 2.0 also adds a funky new UI which lets you sort through your contacts, see your Skype profile to change your setup and quickly see your Skype Credit balance.

There's also a new mood message box for Facebook style status updates making "it easier than ever to share how you are feeling, what you've seen or what you're up to."

The updated Skype app requires Android 2.1+ and the video calling feature only works with the following handsets; HTC Desire S, Sony Ericsson Xperia Neo, Sony Ericsson Xperia Pro and the Google Nexus S - although Skype is promising to add new devices soon.

Pocket-lint tested it out using a Xperia Neo, and it worked flawlessly and, as you can see from the picture, is oodles of fun.

It's in the Android Market now, grab it whilst it's hot. It's free, of course.