Skype Rolls Out Version 4.0

By Greg McNevin

February 4, 2009: While rumours persist that it could be again up for grabs for the highest bidder, eBay’s Skype has rolled out version 4.0 of its leading VoIP software, providing increased focus on video calls, increased audio quality and integration with IBM’s LotusLive.

Calling the release “the most significant launch” in its five-year history, the company says that the new version puts heavy emphasis on video calls, which currently make up 25 percent of all Skype to Skype traffic.

The new release also makes use of a new audio codec, which Skype claims can deliver better audio – even audio superior to that of a traditional voice call - with 50 percent less bandwidth use than the last version.

The company also recently announced new integration with IBM’s new cloud service, LotusLive, bringing Skype-enabled collaboration services to enterprises.

"We recognise that communications is an integral component of collaboration in an Internet-enabled world and that many small businesses have already adopted Skype," said Sean Poulley, vice president of online collaboration, IBM Lotus. "This integration will simplify and improve the way businesses interact with their customers and partners."

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