Skype Announces Beta API for Developers

Press Release
November 9, 2004

Internet telephone provider Skype unveiled the beta version of its Skype API (application program interface) as the Luxembourg-based firm moved to broaden its rapidly growing base.

Niklas Zennstrom, Skype’s CEO and co-founder, said Tuesday that the API represents the start of Skype as an open platform. He said non-commercial users can integrate the Skype API in their applications without charge; other Skype partnerships will be handled on an individual basis. Skype, which has 14.5 million users, connects callers using earphones over the Internet. The company said it has been signing up 100,000 users a day recently.
A software development kit includes documentation and sample code.

Skype U.S. spokeswoman Kelly Larrabee said the company expects applications will cover a wide variety of uses ranging from games to call centers. As an example, she said gamers could integrate free voice features into their game playing activities.

Related Links

• Official Skype website
• Skype Developer API Kiet
• Skype Preps Business Phone Service - October 7, 2004
• Skype Releases Pocket PC Software - September 9, 2004
• Skype Release 1.0 Now Available - July 27, 2004
• Discuss Skype in the forums