posted on April 27, 2006 02:27:05 PM
Skype is an insecure VOIP (voice over internet protocol) or internet telephony. Similar systems have been around since 1995 or so from small to large companies including AT&T. You need a headset with microphone or special VOIP handset (around $10 - $50 depending on features) to use the service.
posted on April 27, 2006 02:50:55 PM
Shoot, ebay sent me a Skype CD and free headset (earbud)/microphone a few months ago and I promptly deposited it in the trash. The last thing I need is babbling fools calling me. The numerous dumb questions I get through ebays ASAQ is bad enough. I can't even imagine using Skype. They can keep it.
Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the former. - Albert Einstein
posted on April 27, 2006 03:18:57 PM
When Ebay purchased Skype, they gave the excuse it was primarily to facilitate communications between buyers and sellers via VOIP. Their real reason began to surface two days ago with the revelation that they have licensed music rights from several major studios including Warner and Sony. They are using songs from major recording artists for ringtones and selling them to their users. Speculation is running rampant on Wall Street today. Many believe they intend to turn it into a music and/or video download site to compete with Apple, Yahoo and their own (Ebay) sellers of recorded media. Their plans should become more clear within the next few weeks.
If Murphy's law is correct, everything East of the San Andreas Fault will slide into the Atlantic
posted on April 27, 2006 05:26:45 PM
I have no problem conducting business over the phone, but the problem with ebay is that you get a lot of people who really don't have a life, and want to make you part of it. I have a lot of great customers, and will chat with some occasionally, that is ok - but I can't tell you how many people have called (over and over and over) and then finally leave a message or email, and the question is something really stupid, like when did you mail my $3 video. I think some of these guys have called a dozen times before doing so. I try not to answer my cel phone unless I know who the call is from, it is amazing how persistant some of them are. The few times I have answered and got dragged into stupid small talk, well, it is best to avoid. Skype? Just say no! Keep internet transaction online, where they mostly belong.
Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the former. - Albert Einstein