It took a little longer than expected, but Skype has finally released an iPad app. Early this morning a new version of Skype optimized for Apple’s tablet hit the App Store… and then it was pulled. But now it’s back.
The new app allows you to make voice or video calls or send instant messages to other Skype users for free over a 3G or WiFi connection. You can also make cheap calls to telephone numbers if you have SkypeOut credit.
Skype has offered an iOS app for the iPhone and iPod touch for ages, but the new version is optimized for the tablet’s larger display. There’s a multi-panel layout, with your contact list on the left and other information on the right, including instant messages, history, or profile information.
When you’re in a video call you’ll see the person you’re talking to in a nice big full-screen view, while a small window near the bottom of the screen shows what you look like so you can check your hair. You can also switch between the front and rear camera on an iPad 2.
Skype for iPad is available as a free download from the App Store.
While Skype isn’t the first company to offer video chat for the iPad, the popular service does have a huge user base and support for multiple platforms, which means you can now place calls from your iPad to a PC, Mac, or Linux computer, an iPhone, iPod touch, or Android device, or even some internet-connected televisions.
