Skype calls not allowed over iPad 3G connections

During our live iPad 3G first look this afternoon, TUAW readers were able to confirm that Skype calls still cannot be placed over the iPad 3G's cellular network connection. The Skype application will not connect those calls, telling users that, "You need WiFi to call over Skype." So what's the reason for this? "Skype calls over 3G networks are currently not allowed due to contractual restrictions."

This should not come as a surprise. Skype has yet to release an iPad version of their software, and the iPhone-specific application has not received an update since early April. Testing the software on the iPad only confirmed that the same old things continue to work the same old way, regardless of the platform they were run upon.

So why the big interest?
In January, the iPhone SDK agreement and software was updated to specifically permit VoIP, or "voice over Internet protocol" communication. Since then, users have been waiting for Skype for iPhone OS with cell network access to debut. According to a February Skype blog post, it will be "soon."

As expected, February levels of "soon" do not include late April/early May. That's mostly because new VoIP OS features will be released this summer when iPhone OS 4.0 hits the street. Unfortunately, the removal of VoIP restrictions does not seem to backtrack into the 3.x firmware.

For the time being, you can continue to make Skype calls over Wi-Fi. The iPad (and the iPad 3G) includes both a built-in microphone and built-in speakers. You can also use external head sets, either through the headphone jack (via iPhone style earbuds with built-in microphone) or through the Camera Connection Kit with a USB dongle.

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During our live iPad 3G first look this afternoon, TUAW readers were able to confirm that Skype calls still cannot be placed over the...

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John

You know even though the Skype app isn't working with the iPad over 3G people have proved the concept and functionality AND are calling for free.

I like the future for portable VoIP calling. There is a tutorial showing how to set it up here http://ipad-candy.com/ipad_phone_calling/

I'm excited fir the future as innovators us this technology more fully.

May 15 2010 at 10:12 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

iPhoneuser13

News Flash people. The iPad is NOT an iPhone. Get over it. Can't call with Skype big deal. Next Story please...

May 03 2010 at 8:55 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

axel

when i had the iphone i used fring with video conference over 3g, i believe it should work the same way with the ipad

May 02 2010 at 12:48 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

Ricki

So how can i run Free Long distance callarc client on the IPAD? Free International calls

May 01 2010 at 7:23 PM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

Jeff

Is it just me or are those iPhone 4Gs.

May 01 2010 at 7:31 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

Tobias Fredriksson

As they havn't come out with an iPad specific version then I'm guessing the swedish (or just international) version of Skype will still allow calling over 3G on the iPad 3G as I'm doing that on my own iPhone 3G.

May 01 2010 at 4:51 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

I have been making calls on my iPad since day one with line2. It's free for 30 days, the 15 a month for unlimited calls. It works over my iPhones 3G connection, so it's safe to assume that it will work on 3G iPad. With or without a Bluetooth headset or apples mic headphones. I think it way better than Skype for that purpose. No texting though:(

May 01 2010 at 1:04 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

Hugo Gonzalez

I used to use nimbuzz on the iPhone, now I use it on Android. Some latency, but works on 3g.

April 30 2010 at 10:40 PM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

skooler

Sign up for Fring.
Download the free iPhone app.
Link your Skype, MSN, and Gtalk accounts and make Skype calls over 3G as much as you like.

Including video (from the other end obviously)

April 30 2010 at 10:04 PM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

Steven Mattera

This makes sense. This feature won't be added till 4.0. Yes, "AT&T" allows for VOIP over 3G, but app developers have no way of telling which network you are on. Not until 4.0 at least. If I'm correct the iPhone Version of Skype does the same thing. (luckily I'm jailbroken [No, I don't pirate])

April 30 2010 at 9:49 PM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply