Mike Southby

Unfortunately Skype isn’t available on the Market for download, Skype officially do not have an Android product as yet aside from a branded version here in the UK for the 3 network (and I believe a similar version on Verizon in the US).  It’s also not possible to download the 3 version and use it on another network as it’s not a true p2p application. 3 use a ‘Skype bridge’ which routes only part of the call through the Skype network rendering it useless on other networks.

All is not lost though, whilst it is no longer available, Skype at one stage did have a beta product called Skype Lite available for all Android handsets, although it has long since been withdrawn you can download it from here.

There are limitations though.

It would seem that in order to make outgoing Skype calls, Skype Lite dials a local UK landline number to route the calls, which of course for most will not be an issue owing to talk time packages.  However, if like me this isn’t your primary reason for wanting Skype then this itself it not a huge issue; after all if I want to make a call I’ll just use my phone (or Google Voice).  Personally my sole reason for wanting Skype is to be able to use the instant messaging feature as I have a lot of Skype contacts and I’m pleased to report this works just fine, without limitation.

For those wanting all of the Skype features, there are rumours that Skype are developing a full release which will be available later this year.

Enjoy.

Update: 05/10/2010, The official Android Skype client has now been released, details can be found here.