The Skype application works on almost any computer with a webcam.
The last decade has seen an explosion in the number of video conferencing applications in the consumer market. Skype continues to be one of the most popular of these applications with 560 million registered users. Google Talk by comparison, has 976,000 users. Skype provides video calling services for both computers and mobile phones. Fring is relatively new to the video calling world and focuses exclusively on mobile phone support. Overall, Skype offers many more services to consumers than Fring. Fring succeeds, however, in delivering its calling services at significantly lower prices than Skype.
Software Accessibility
The Skype service includes computer software for Mac, Windows and Linux platforms. This software is completely free to download. Skype also includes mobile software for iPhones, Android phones, Blackberries and a host of other 3G devices. Fring, on the other hand, only includes mobile software for iPhones, Android phones and Nokia OVI devices. Fring's software is also free to download.
Video Chatting Plans
Skype allows users to chat one-on-one with any other Skype user at no charge. The company charges a monthly subscription fee if you choose to video chat with multiple users. Conference calls can include up to 10 users. The fee varies, depending upon the number of months you subscribe. You can also purchase a single-day pass for a one-off group video chat. Fring allows you to video chat with up to four users for free. The company does not include a paid service, so it limits all video chatting to five people.
Phone Call Service
Skype allows users to call any landline or mobile phone in the world from within the application. The service charges fees starting from 2.3 cents per minute up to 71 cents per minute. Fees vary widely depending upon the country users call. Domestic U.S. calls are only 2.3 cents per minute. Users can also choose monthly calling subscriptions. Fring includes mobile and landline calling to any country in the world. Fring's calling rate begin at 0.9 cents per minute for U.S. domestic calls and go up to 42 cents per minute.
Software Support
Skype includes a very extensive support system for users. The website includes an FAQ section, application how-to guides and a support forum. Skype also includes specialized help for business users utilizing their software within their companies. Fring includes a more limited support website, including user guides and FAQs and allowing Fring members to submit individual support tickets.
Tags: cents minute, includes mobile, video chat, allows users, also includes, Android phones, calling services