Skype kicks off an Android and Iphone video calling service

A RECENT ACQUISITION by Skype, Qik has updated its video calling software for Android phones and added the ability to connect to Iphone users.

"We're excited to announce Qik Video Connect-a new version of Qik for Android and an update to the latest Qik iPhone app," said the firm. "Qik Video Connect has lots of great new features and one incredible capability-live video chat with friends across Android phones and iPhones!"

Until now the service has been available only on certain handsets as a pre-installed piece of software, however the fact that it is now on app stores means that it is now open to a much wider user base. Previously it had been available only through a few firms including Sprint, T-Mobile, Samsung, HTC and Motorola, the company explained.

Now, it added, the same features including sending video email can be found on Android phones - versions 2.1 through 2.3.3 - Iphones, the Ipad 2, and Ipod Touch devices that have a camera.

As well as making video calls person to person, the software can also let users quickly upload their recorded videos to social notworking and other websites like Facebook and Youtube.

Skype is offering video emails free until June, when that part of the application will become paid for, and possibly less attractive. µ