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Skype is already widely popular, but it would get an even bigger boost if you could use it for calls when you're away from a PC. Skype for Pocket PC claims to let you do just that, with access to your Skype account, contacts, and services on Pocket PC handhelds. I tested the latest full release, version 2.1, which Skype launched on October 5. Unfortunately, even after taking it for a spin on two of the most powerful Windows for Pocket PC devices available, I still can't recommend it.
The software's minimum requirements are enough to disqualify most smart devices. Skype for Pocket PC 2.1 requires a minimum of a 400-MHz processor and Windows Mobile 5 for Pocket PC. This means all devices running Windows Mobile 5 for Smartphone are out, including popular models such as the Cingular 3125 and the T-Mobile SDA. Even a brand-new phone like the Palm Treo 700wx doesn't make the cut, because its processor is only 312 MHz.
Casting aside a number of perfectly good handhelds that don't meet Skype's specs, I installed Skype for Pocket PC 2.1 on a 624-MHz HP iPAQ hx2790 and logged in to my regular Skype account. The interface is nearly identical to the one you'll find on a desktop PC. I saw my list of contacts, brought up the numeric keypad to dial a call, and navigated the Tools menu without any trouble.
Actually placing phone calls, however, isn't exactly a walk in the park. In fact, there are a great many hoops to jump through. First, connect your PDA to a Wi-Fi hot spot. Then, power up your Bluetooth headset (assuming you've already synced it to your PDA and set it up as a hands-free device). Start up Skype, log in, and bring up the dial pad by selecting the Dial icon. Before making important calls, you'll want to practice dialing and hanging up with the on-screen keys. Also don't forget to add the obligatory "+" sign that Skype requires before dialing each number (you get the "+" by pressing and holding the 0 key with the stylus). You'll probably want to adjust your PDA's power-save feature, which darkens the screen, too, because you won't be able to adjust it if the screen goes dark while you're on a call.
If you can get past all that, congratulations are in order. Skype calls actually sounded fairly clear on my HP iPAQ PDA to both Skype contacts and regular numbers, though I heard a moderate number of dropouts and odd ringing tones in between some words.
Skype makes no guarantees about which model Bluetooth headsets will work. I tried using a Plantronics Voyager 510 headset with the iPAQ and got nowhere, even though the headset synced up properly with the iPAQ and was set as a hands-free device. I couldn't get audio to route through the headset on most calls. Twice I did hear some audio through the 510, but it was so choppy that it was impossible to make out a single word the other party was saying. There was also a 2-second lag between when the person spoke and when I actually heard it in the earpiece when using the headset.
You can't use a wired headset with the iPAQ hx2790, because it comes with only a stereo 3.5mm headphone jack. This jack isn't compatible with the 2.5mm models you see on most cell phones, which combine an earpiece and built-in mic. You could theoretically skip the headset altogether, but then everyone in the room will hear both ends of the conversation. When using Skype this way, don't hold the PDA too close to your ear, or your cheek will accidentally make contact with the touch screen and bring up the Start menu or even launch applications.
If you think you'll have a better experience with a smartphone running Pocket PC instead of a PDA, think again. I tried Skype for Pocket PC on a powerful Samsung IP-830w phone, expecting to have a more normal phone experience. But I still needed to use a headset, because Skype can't route audio through a phone's earpiece. Even with the IP-830w's speedy 520-MHz processor, call quality was mixed at best, with similar issues as above, even though this time I was connected through Sprint's 3G data network instead of over Wi-Fi.
In short, Skype for Pocket PC isn't for the faint of heart. This app isn't at all ready for prime time, despite its 2.1 version number and full release designation. Though I could envision a few truly dedicated power handheld users getting this app up and running, the vast majority of people shouldn't bother. Unless you're a Skype fanatic, stick with using Skype on your laptop or desktop PC and wait for the next release.
Submitted Date: Nov 06, 2006
Source: ABC News
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