One of the really cool things about iOS 4 on the Apple iPhone is the potential to use the Skype app in the background but it looks like the VoIP calling service is no longer in the App Store.
This was first pointed out by TechCrunch, and my searches of the App Store show the Skype iPhone program is gone. One may think that Skype’s deal with Verizon could be leading to the disappearance but the VoIP-calling company says this isn’t the case.
“We’re not seeing the Skype app in the App store. We’re very eager to get to the bottom of this, and I can tell you this has nothing to do with our Verizon deal,” Skype told TechCrunch. “The Skype for iPhone app and the Skype Mobile app on Verizon Wireless phones have co-existed.”
Let’s hope this is just a slight glitch (which has happened before) because this could be a powerful communication tool on your iPhone. You’ll be able to kind of go around AT&T by using this in the background and you’ll even be able to make VoIP calls over 3G on your iPhone.
The iPhone Skype app is good but it’s looking like the Verizon versions will remain a bit better. The VoIP calling service is available on Big Red Android and BlackBerry devices and, like the iPhone version, you’ll get free calls with Skype users and SMS. Verizon ups the ante by using its cellular network to help ensure connections have strong voice quality. This is free and doesn’t use any of your monthly minutes. This could be an important differentiator and we’ve already seen Verizon tout this app in multiple “Droid Does” advertisements.
We’ll wait for more word on future developments. In the meanwhile, let us know what you would improve about the Apple iPhone program and what other features you would like in the VoIP app.
[Via TechCrunch]