Skype vs. Fring: Let the Battle Begin

VS.

Now that Skype has been fully unleashed onto the Android Market, what does this mean for other similar apps like Fring? How do these two apps measure up against each other?

Well to start, Fring allows you to make calls over Fring, Skype, MSN, and Google Talk. It also allows you to make calls over 3G, GPRS, and Wifi, without using minutes. They also allow you to use chat over a well plated variety of messengers like; AIM, MSN, and Yahoo. It also had a recent update in July, making it run smoother and more efficent when making and receiving calls over 3G and Wifi.

Skype also has similar features like free Skype to Skype calling and text messaging over Verizon's network which is a real plus and its at no cost to your plan's minutes. They also have instant messaging to any of the Skype contacts you may have in your contact list. Skype does however, only allow Wifi usage in the US where as Fring allows Wifi abroad. Skype seems to have built alot of anticipation built up as its coming out to Android has drawn a nice following, but when compared to the rating of Fring on the Android Market, its down by a half a star. I know that isnt much but its still a difference.

Skype still has some bugs to work out as well so it may be only a matter of time before they become a solid staple in the VoIP era. To make things a little more challenging on Skype is the fact that Fring has launched their FringOUT service, allowing worldwide phone calls for as little as 1 cent a minute. That puts some crunch on Skype to match well in pricing. Skype charges 2.6 cents per minute plus surcharge and connection fees. It may be an uphill battle for Skype but thats for you, the consumer, to decide.

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