Skype Intros 1.0 Beta Version for Intel-based MIDs

Skype (News - Alert) has introduced the Skype 1.0 Beta for Intel-based Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs). The new version was released after collaboration efforts with Intel Corporation to develop a mobile Skype experience for MIDs based on the Intel (News - Alert) Atom processor and Moblin-based Linux OS.


MIDs are small, mobile consumer devices offering an optimum Internet experience and that allow for communication and entertainment while on the go. MIDs are also equipped with 4 inch to 7 inch screens, a camera, GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity and some MIDs are capable of supporting WiMAX (News - Alert) or 3G/4G for wireless broadband connectivity.

According to ABI, the number of Linux-enabled MIDs is expected to increase to 86 million by the year 2013.

The new version of Skype enhances communications via a fast, smooth kinetic scrolling support on touch screen displays on the MIDs. Users can make free Skype-to-Skype voice and video calls to locations around the world with the offering.

 “Today’s introduction of the first, complete Internet communications offering for MIDs bridges the gap between the phone and PC and underscores our vision of ‘Skype everywhere’ and our commitment to open access,” said Scott Durchslag, Skype’s Chief Operating Officer.

“By supporting WiFi (News - Alert), WiMax, 3G and 4G, this development expands Skype’s mobile portfolio and further illustrates the broad accessibility to Skype that we offer on a multitude of mobile devices.”

Skype and Intel will deliver the application software for the MIDs through ODMs and OEMs which will enable them to provide rich Internet communications experiences including instant messaging, group IM, voice and video calls.