CES2010: Skype 4.2 supports 1280 x 720 HD video calls

I have good news and bad news from Las Vegas.

The good news: Skype for Windows 4.2 Beta will triple your screen resolution from High Quality 640x480 to 720p HD 1280 x 720. Download the Beta now (full install). You'll need a 1 Mbps connection between the two callers. You'll also need a new HD webcam and PC with a 1.8 GHz dual-core processor.

The bad news in three parts:

First, it's just for Windows now. No word on when the Mac or Linux versions will support HD.

Second, HD webcams that will support Skype HD video aren't shipping. The first ones will ship in March from faceVsion (the FV TouchCam N1) and from Skype's close partner, In Store Solutions (Freetalk HD PRO and Freetalk HD PRO PLUS). They will be available through Skype.com.

Last, Skype has not published open specifications for webcam manufacturers, explaining how to design for and integrate with Skype. So hundreds of webcam makers won't be able to meet public demand from Skype users. It's still who-you-know business at Skype.

faceVsion will offer demos of its upcoming webcams at the Palazzo during CES.

tags: skype, video, hd, hidef, highdefinition, 720p

Call me at +1-510-316-9773, Skype me, follow @skypejournal and @Phil Wolff.
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