Skype Launches Next Generation Free Internet and Video Calling for Everyone

The beta version of Skype 2.0 is available for people to download at www.skype.com. The free software includes:

Skype Video – see your friends and family on the full computer screen or in the Skype calling window. Skype Video also includes a window to view what you look like to the person you are calling.

Simplified user interface – an intuitive menu with one-click access to key features and options makes it even easier for the whole world to talk for free.

Self-expression – broadcast your mood along with your online presence. Let your contacts know whether you’re happy, sad, listening to your favorite music, available to talk or do not want to be disturbed.

Personalization – personalize your Skype identity with avatars or custom ring tones.

See your contacts’ time zones – before you wake up your friends, family or colleagues take a quick glance to see what time it is in their location.

Group your contacts – organize your contacts by grouping your friends, co-workers or family members. Start conference calls, chats or file sharing with the whole group with just one click.

Real-time contact search – look up contacts in real-time by typing a name into the dialing field.

Skype toolbar for Microsoft Outlook – one-click calling to contacts from your Microsoft Outlook address book.

Skype Video gives users free, high-quality video calling capabilities. Compatible with almost any Webcam, Skype Video is fully integrated into Skype calling, and can be adjusted to provide full-screen video with just one click. After downloading Skype 2.0, simply plug in a Webcam to start using video for free. Skype-certified Webcams will be available from Creative at select retailers in Europe and from Logitech through the Skype Web store located at http://www.skype.com/store.

"Logitech is a pioneer in video just as Skype has pioneered Internet calling," said Junien Labrousse, Logitech senior vice president of the entertainment and communications business unit. "Together we are providing a superior video communications experience to Skype's community around the world."

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