Skype on 3

Skype on 3 is a mobile application only works in THREE network. Actually, this application mainly works on traditional voice network. Now, let me describe its work theory.

1st, after I login into this app, I can see the online & offline user list. I can choose to call or message them. Attention, till now, all these actions only relate mobile network. Then, when I try to call an online user, this app will make a traditional voice call to a THREE number - 0430005332, which provides skype service. This service will call the user through network, then connect me and recipient.

Now, I think you mut have known the full flow of this simple call. In conclusion, I make a voice call to THREE. Then, THREE forward the call to recipient through real skype network.

And vice versa, when someone call me on skype, the THREE receives the call and forward to me by giving me a voice call.

Of course, the chat messages still go through data network.

Let's give this method a conclusion:

Positive

  • voice quality. This skype call is not based on mobile network. That means low performance 3G network won't be the bottle neck of Skype call
  • no requirement on large data plan. Users don't need a large amount data plan for VoIP. This app only need a very little bytes to initial a skype call. Then, voice call will take the baton

Negative

  • service isn't reliable enough. I met a few times I can't call online contacts. When I pressed call, I was navigated to call UI, then wait, and wait, and finally disconnetted! I don't know if it's fault of THREE, or Skype. However, it give me bad experience.
  • limited model availibility. This app currently only works on a few models of mobile. Obviously, not all users like Nokia and Symbian. Especially after Apple and Google have released their elegent and stylish mobile OS for years. THREE should delivery this app on iOS and Android as soon as possible. Then this very well feature will greatly help THREE sharp its edge.