On Tuesday, Skype announced the long-awaited release of the Android version of its messaging software. On Thursday, it was cracked and ready to be used via 3G.
Users with phones running Android 2.1 and 2.2 can download the free app to make free Skype-to-Skype calls. In the US, calls are limited to just Wi-Fi. In Europe and elsewhere, however, users can also make Skype calls over GPRS, EDGE, or 3G.
The US limitation is now gone, thanks to hackers who have managed to enable the VoIP calling over 3G networks. The 3G-enabled app, posted on DroidForums.net (via Engadget, requires users to manually install the hacked .apk file.
In addition to free Skype-to-Skype calls, users can also make low cost calls to landlines or mobile phones, instant message their contacts, and receive calls through a Skype online phone number. Skype contacts can also be synced to Android's native address book. Skype for Android has been successfully tested on a range of handsets including the HTC Desire, HTC Legend, the Google Nexus One, and the Motorola Droid. It also supports a range of languages including English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Spanish, Swedish, and Russian.