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A Skype application for the Blackberry that works? Maybe?

by Tris Hussey on May 11th, 2007

I saw this a few days ago and have held off writing about this Skype for Blackberry app until I had some time to play with it:

IM+ for Skype Software by SHAPE Services is a mobile client for Skype Software. It enables voice and text communication with other Skype users as well as cost-effective calling to landline or mobile connections. IM+ for Skype Software uses SkypeOut credits for voice communication ensuring cost- effective calls to any number around the globe. For users of Skype Unlimited plan (only USD 29.95 per year) IM+ enables almost free calling from a BlackBerry smartphone to any PC with Skype or any landline/mobile number. All you need is a BlackBerry smartphone and IM+ for Skype Software installed.
Source: Experience Mobility » Blog Archive » IM+ for Skype Software Debuts see also Crunch Gear

Skype is my primary business IM client.  Gtalk hangs around because until now it was the only one I could get on my Berry for free.  I’ve been looking for a real MSN client (RIM has developed one, but it isn’t available for all carriers) without much success.  A Skype client?  That would be awesome.  Well, the search might be over.  This is heavy on the might part.  IM+ for Skype is a pretty basic app.  Shape Services clearly wanted to tap into the Skype calling features instead of just looking at IM.  I haven’t tried calling, just IM at this point.  IM+ For Skype isn’t free, either, I’m running a 7 day trial of it.

I’m going to give it a lukewarm thumbs up right now.  The IM side could be a lot better.  I’d like to see people’s real names and not Skype names.  I’d also like better sorting (I have a ton of contacts in Skype), but my main gripe might not be their fault at all-network setup.  IM+ has a simple auto-config tool, which consistently fails for me, but I can still connect, only to have to go through the process again when I reopen it (you can send it to the background or close when hitting the esc key in the contact list).  Trying to listen to a sound crashes the app on my 7130e.  Not a big deal.  Annoying, yes, however.

So the network problem.  No, I don’t know what’s up and no I haven’t had a chance to send info to the developers about it.  I’m betting it’s just something on the Telus network.  Now, if I can get it all figured out…I’m pretty sure I’ll be buying the app.  I really don’t care about calling … the IM alone will be great.

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