Skype To Feature Giant Ads

benfrog writes "Skype will be introducing a new 'feature' into calls for users don't have subscriptions or credit. Giant ads. They are actually calling them 'Conversation ads' because they hope the ads (as large as the picture of the person to whom you are speaking) will 'spark additional topics of conversation that are relevant to Skype users and highlight unique and local brand experiences.' The ads, of course, are tailored to each individual user, though there is an opt-out for that."

Re:Ad Muncher blocks skype ads.

[desdinova 216]

here at slashdot we tend to be highly suspicious of anything that looks like an advertisment thanks to people who post Irellevant comments mention a certain piece of software.

Re:A recent conversation about closed standards

[Technician]

You can use Skype if you wish. Somehow I see alternatives gaining traction.

SIP protocol for VOIP supports video from several vendors for free. Some SIP providers provide free VOIP gateways to/from Skype and Google Talk.

You can ring my POTS phone plugged into a SIP ATA (analog telephone adaptor) suchas a Linksys PAP2T from Skype, Google Talk, SIP, or a plain POTS phone for free. No ads, no Skype-In expense. I call all of US and Canada for free dialing with Google Talk. No cost for Skype out.

Other than the optional Linksys box purchase, the calls are free.

SIP provider with free Skype gateway - ippi.fr
Free US DID number for free in calls from POTS - IPKall
Free calling to US and Canada linked to IPKall number and SIP -- Google Voice (limited locations)
Free SIP softphone for Linux as an alternate to the Linksys box - Ekiga.net or Twinkle.

Why pay for Skype-in or out minutes? Ads are optional.

Re:Where's the encryption?

[postglock]

Nowhere does it say they will listen in to your conversations. From TFA, "We may use non-personally identifiable demographic information (e.g. location, gender and age) to target ads."

Re:A recent conversation

[smash]

You also get a mac or iphone, which is actually pleasant to use, rather than some cheap plasticy feeling piece of shit that is supported by the vendor for approximately 6 months.