Skype is a software application that allows people to make free voice and video calls over the Internet.

It also allows to make (paid) phone calls from the Internet onto a regular landline or mobile phone.  I have been using Skype for quite some time. On the Mac or PC, also available on the iPhone, iPod touch and iPad.

Skype comes very handy when you travel and you want to call your folks back home. It’s also very popular among families that have relatives in other states, provinces or countries. If your kids left for college in a different state or province, or your grandkids are living abroad in another country, Skype can help you stay connected and see each other.

Similar to FaceTime, Skype is not limited to Apple products and works well with different platforms (Mac OS, Windows, Android, iOS, etc).

Installing Skype on iPad

To be able to use Skype, you’ll need to install it onto your iPad first. To learn more about how to install apps onto your iPad please check out the following Post:

How to download and install iPad apps

Applicable to:
iPad versions: iPad 2, The new iPad, iPad Mini, iPad with Retina Display
iOS versions: iOS 5, iOS 6 and up

Creating a Skype user

You will also need a Skype user. This can be created for free through the Skype website.

Click on the “Join Us” button on the upper right corner and complete the required information (i.e.: name, last name, email address, Skype name and password). Take note of the Skype name and password, you will need them to continue onto the next step.

Starting Skype on iPad

You have successfully downloaded Skype and created a Skype name (or user). Now it’s time to start Skype on your iPad.

Tap on the Skype icon.

The Skype login screen appears. Type the Skype name (created on previous step) and password. Then tap on “Sign In”.

After successful login you will see the Skype main screen.

Skype Main screen

From the Skype main screen you have access to several menus or options.

“My Info” menu (Top left corner)
Contacts: Displays the contacts
History: Displays the log of incoming and outgoing calls as well as chat messages.
Lists: Displays the different contact lists available on your iPad ( all, iPad contacts, online contacts, saved phone numbers and skype contacts )

Dial pad: Pressing this icon pops up a dial pad that allows you to make calls from Skype to fixed or mobile phones ( as long as you have credit in your Skype account ).

Plus sign: Pressing the plus sign opens the Add pop up. The Add pop up allows you to search and add new Skype contacts as well as save new contacts phone numbers.

I’ll let you get familiar with the Skype app and on my next post I’ll show you how to make some audio and video calls.

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