Skype Unveils Version 3.1 for Windows

Skype has unveiled Skype 3.1 for Windows, introducing two new services called SkypeFind and Skype Prime Beta designed to offer user-generated content.

The company unveiled SkypeFind last month in a beta version of Skype 3.1, containing around 4,500 listings from 124 countries, expected to have over a million listings by year's end. Skype Prime was launched last week in another pre-release version of Skype 3.1, as a marketplace for individuals and businesses interested in selling their advice. Unlike SkypeFind and Skype 3.1, Skype Prime is still considered to be in a beta, or test phase.

Skype aims to deepen the engagement of its 171 million registered users and extend the scope of the product, with these community-oriented features. The software will allow end users to participate in online services and share material such as photos, videos, anecdotes and opinions with one another.

Moreover, Skype Prime offers users the opportunity to make money and reach potential customers across the globe. Fees are paid using PayPal either on a one-off or per-minute basis, although users will be charged 30 per cent by Skype for using the Skype Prime service.

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