Microsoft-owned Skype has launched its version 3.0 for Android with a new user interface for tablets. The latest version of the video calling application is now optimized for larger displays powered by Google's mobile platform such as Google Nexus 7, Samsung Galaxy Tab 2, Asus Transformer Prime, Acer Iconia, Sony S and Motorola Xoom.
"With so many now using tablets to make video and voice calls with Skype, this latest version is optimized to scale to your tablet's bigger screen, so you can experience Skype on a larger display wherever you go," head of mobile product marketing at Skype, Derek Snyder wrote in an official blog post. He said Skype 3.0 will look great on "the most popular Android tablets" and it will let users to sign on and merge Skype with their Microsoft account.
"From now on you can share the moment, a photo or a smile on the most popular Android tablets. And with our redesigned look and feel, Skype looks great no matter what screen size you have - either on a smaller Android phone or the more spacious display of your tablet," Snyder wrote.
Menus and navigation are redesigned to make the full use of the extra space and the navigation home screen remains unchanged (design-wise). The table on the left side of the screen brings a list of recent calls and the base contact list. Phone dialler, search and settings are placed at the top right corner.
"Skype for Android 3.0 adds support for our wideband audio codec, SILK. SILK was designed to capture the richness of human speech. It copes well with the often varying speeds of Internet connections, ensuring that the audio quality is always the best it can be. That way, Skype will deliver the best possible audio on your tablet, even with a shaky connection," the blog post said.
Skype 3.0 is available for download in the Google Play app store. Skye had recently unveiled gift cards which can be used for making Skype calls to mobile phones and landlines and for sending text messages to mobile devices anywhere the globe. "With Skype's new Gift Cards, sharing all of Skype's calling features is easier than ever before. In the U.S., Skype Gift Cards are available at select retail locations including Microsoft Stores, Target and OfficeMax. You can also purchase e-Gift Cards, that can be delivered online to your friends and family, through the Skype Shop and on our Facebook page starting at $10," a Skype blog post said.
