Web2.0: Skype.com (Internet Chat)

As I've mentioned time and time again, Web2.0 is all about "connecting people together". Skype.com is a way to make voice and video calls using your computer. After a quick download and short installation process, your up in running with your new Skype Console (see screenshot).

Skype is cool because you can actually make long distance calls (in the United States) for free until the end of 2006. This means you can call grandma in Boston from your computer and it won't cost you a dime. Calling other Skype users (computer to computer) will be free forever.

Skype also has the ability to handle conference calls (up to 5 users), send files, and normal "instant messaging". The interface is easy to use and it even has a "test call" feature where it calls Skype and allows you to record a 10 second message. At the end of the call, it plays back your recorded message so you know how your microphone is working. This made the setup/testing process really easy and I found the audio quality on my laptop's built-in microphone worked surprisingly well.

Since it's relatively new and I don't have a lot of friends... my biggest problem was finding other Skype users to call. It's a good thing they will let me dial normal phones for free while I work on my friend list. If you are a ClubRochester.com member and have a Skype account, I encourage you to post a comment below with your ClubRochester.com nickname and Skype ID. Maybe we can start a local network of Skype users!

Filed in: web2.0, skype, chat, clubrochester, rochester, mn