Skype is probably one of the best programs to come out in 2006 and is still a great one. Basically, it is a chat & calling program that allows you to make FREE calls to other Skype users anywhere in the world. No matter who you are trying to stay in touch with, just download Skype and you guys talk for free. Even if the other person doesn’t have Skype, you can still use it to make cheap calls to normal phones with SkypeOut. There is a charge for this service, but you can get
unlimited calling to the U.S. for $29.99 per year (yes, per year, not month) and great rates on international calling, so it may help you save some money on you long distance bill, especially if you’re calling internationally. Skype even allows you to make video calls for free. I started using Skype in 2005 when I moved abroad and I love it! For staying in touch with friends and family back in the US, it has been great! Call quality is usually very good. You do need a high-speed connection to use it and sometimes it can be a little strange sounding, but it is usually very reliable and it keeps getting better and better. Now, this isn’t something you will want to use in place of your home phone (no 911 support, tied to your PC, etc), but it is a great program to have.
Download at the Skype Website or Download.com
