It has been a long time coming, but it is finally here, Skype will be available for download from the App store from tomorrow (Tuesday). Both the original iPhone and the iPhone 3G will be able to run Skype without modification, as will the current generation iPod Touch. Those wanting to use the original iPod Touch will need to buy a third-party microphone accessory.

From the screen grabs, I definitely have to concur with opinion of Jessica Dolcourt on CNET, that it “looks more like your traditional iPhone app than it does Skype 4.0 for Windows.” Beyond the looks, there are a few differences between the iPhone version and other versions of Skype. While video is being considered, it is being released without video calling capabilities because of quality issues. Further, due to Apple’s terms of service, Skype will only be operable via hotspots or Wi-Fi, not over cellular network data services (this is due to Apple’s terms of service); that is probably a good thing when it comes time for the bill.

As with previous versions of Skype, making calls to other Skype users will be free, however, there will also be paid services for calling landlines or cell phones. [WSJ, CNET via Apple Insider]

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