Dossier Skype : test and description of services

We seen the features of skype that are offered for free, now we are going to see some of the different integrated services offered that come at a small cost to the user such as SkypeOut, SkypeIn and VoiceMail.

• Payment

The procedure of purchasing services is very simple: once your details are validated, an email will be sent to you with your code and a procedure to be followed, like other online services, this allows an email address to be validated. You will then be able to select your method of payment before validating your purchase. You will receive a message that it can take up to 15 minutes for your account to be credited, but in reality it does not take any longer then a few seconds.

First seen in June 2004, SkypeOut allows you to place a phone call from your computer to any fixed line or mobile phone at very reasonable prices. To be able to do this, Skype has formed alliances with international network operators; and it doesn’t matter to where you wish to call, nor where you are located when placing the call, you still need to dial the number of your correspondent as if it they were overseas.

For example, if you want to call a mobile phone in France, instead of 06 00 11 22 33 you would instead dial 00 33 6 00 11 22 33. It is also amusing to note that when you call a fixed or mobile phone your call will appear as a hidden number.

When comparing a SkypeOut account to a classic telephone connection, the prices are very impressive; it is also amusing to note that a phone call to a mobile in French Guiana is cheaper then if I was to call a fixed line.