Skype Equips MySpace Users to Make Free Calls

[TechCrunch]

Starting in November, MySpace’s 110 million active users will be able to make free phone calls using Skype-enabled version of MySpace’s instant messaging client, MySpaceIM.

This marks the first time that Skype has allowed its technology to be integrated into a 3rd-party application, thereby disassociating the Skype service from the Skype client.

Skype has provided a developer program through which others could build applications that make calls to the Skype client, but the company never before allowed for seamless integration with its VoIP network.
MySpace users will be able to make calls using MySpaceIM without needing to download any additional Skype software or even to sign up for a Skype account. They will also be able to initiate calls through MySpaceIM by clicking a link that will be displayed under the portraits on MySpace profile pages.

In addition, the integration of MySpace and Skype will allow MySpace users to transfer information, such as portraits, from their profiles to their Skype accounts.

MySpace claims that MySpaceIM currently has over 25 million installed users. MySpaceIM with Skype will be launched in 20 countries.

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[Fanatic]

Personally, I think Skype made a bad move here. MySpace is rapidly becoming a third-world country, supplanted by Facebook. True, Facebook doesn't have their own IM (yet), but MySpace IM is just stupid.

MySpace may have the numbers at the moment, but they do NOT have the momentum.

[Jeff]

MySpace is quickly garnering a reputation as the place to have been, and Facebook seems to be where everyone is going. I have to say, I'm quite sick of the awful "glitter" graphics and profile customizations that could burn your retinas.

Facebook can be junked up, too, but for the most part, it's much easier on the eyes.