Skype supports true multitasking on iOS4, 3G calls to be free

Skype has released an update for the iOS4 on the App store, the latest update, version 2.1.0, runs on the background minimised, and lets you receive Skype calls while other apps are running, even when your iPhone is locked. This means that you can continue your call on Skype and switch to other apps on your iOS4 device.

Initial reports from users have mentioned that the Skype app really eats away at the battery and heats up the phone. We tested the new app on a iOS4 enabled iPod Touch 3G, and it works really well on a Wi-Fi connection. An hour after logging in, the unit feels a bit warm, we'll have an update on how well the battery fares in a while.

The iOS4 update rolled out a while ago, and only a small list of apps such as Facebook and Twitter were able to run on the background. Skype would log off as soon as it was minimised or when the user switched to another app. This was a big boast for Android toting colleague, as his phone supports true multitasking for all apps from day one. Skype is integrated into many Nokia phones as well, but requires the user to turn off the cellular connection and go into offline mode before making a call over Wi-Fi.

Skype has also announced a change in plans, and won't be charging a supplementary fee to make 3G calls over Skype. The end-user will have to bear 3G data costs of course. This might win them more fans, following a very public face-off against Fring last week. Since a week, Skype no longer works on Fring.

In late 2009, Fring used Skype's network to make a 'world-first' claim, allowing users to make video calls on Nokia phones with a front-facing camera. This was extended to the iPhone 4 earlier this month, enabling "free 2-way video calling to friends on iPhone, Android, Nokia over 3G and Wi-Fi - anyone, anywhere" their iOS4 app also claimed to support true multitasking.

Skype claims that Fring made the decision to remove Skype functionality on its own, while Fring had called it an "anti-competitive ambush in the wake of fring's mobile video calling on iPhone 4 launch."