Video calling makes people “feel more connected to friends and family,” says Skype. To make the connection clearer, the internet communications software provider is now supporting 720p HD video at 30 frames per second.
Today, 34 percent of all Skype-to-Skype calls include video, the company says.
Using the new Skype 4.2 for Windows requires, of course, an HD webcam, sufficient bandwidth, and processing power.
The In Store Solutions Talk-7170 HD Pro and the Talk-7181 HD Pro Plus have a 5-megapixel sensor for 720p video, and the company says its onboard chip “eliminates the need for additional processing by the computer running the Skype application, enabling superior video conversations between people.” This also means less network bandwidth and CPU cycles for HD video calls. The models differ by having two or four built-in cardioid microphones to help improve echo canceling performance, and are priced at $120 and $140, respectively.
Alternatively, HDTVs shipping later this year will have Skype internet calling software embedded. Panasonic, for example, says consumers can make voice and video calls over Skype on its Viera Cast-enabled HDTVs – although the 720p camera will be sold as a separate accessory. LG and others will also market Skype-enable TVs.
