Skype demos 'always-on' app for iPhone

Stuart Corner
Friday, 09 April 2010 11:52

Your IT - Mobility

Skype has demonstrated a version of its iPhone App that will run in background under the new iPhone OS 4.0, enabling users to be always able to receive incoming calls and messages: so long as they have WiFi access.

There is not yet any version of Skype of the iPhone that will operate over the cellular network.

The app was demonstrated at Apple's launch of the new OS, in beta, and will, according to a posting on Skype's blog site, be available in the Northern Summer.

Skype blogger, Peter Parkes said: "Whether you switch to another app or just put the phone in your pocket, Skype will be able to receive calls. When a call comes in, you'll see a notification on the screen, and you'll be able to pick it up with a single tap."

The blog attracted a number of questions: about the possibility of the app rapidly draining the battery and whether it presaged the long-awaited launch of a 3G version of Skype for the iPhone.

Parkes replied to suggestions that the app would quickly drain the battery by saying: "battery impact should be minimal - Apple's developed the platform to work that way.

Skype announced earlier this year an exclusive deal with the US' largest mobile operator, Verizon Wireless, to make Skype available on a range of smartphones. This has created speculation that if, or when, a Skype iPhone app that uses the 3G network does become available it will be a Verizon exclusive.

One commentator said: "So looks like the secrecy and delay of the Skype 3G app version was due to Apple's secrecy policies? Just glad we can finally put the Verizon exclusivity rumours to rest now. Still hoping we don't have to wait till summer to get 3G support though."

Parkes, however did nothing to scotch the Verizon exclusivity rumour, saying in reply: "We have a great relationship with Verizon Wireless. We're working together to develop great apps for people across the US. The iPhone app you see in this demo is simply an example of the innovation possible on the iPhone platform."