UGN InfoManager

Skype has released Skype 1.4 for Mac OS X, which adds numerous enhancements to the free software that allows anyone with an Internet connection to make free calls, stay in touch, and express themselves online.

With Skype 1.4, Mac users can now take advantage of call forwarding and call auto-answer, providing even more flexibility to when, where and how to make and receive Internet calls. The new Skype software can automatically pause iTunes when a Skype call is answered and, for the first time, the Mac OS X version is available in Japanese.

"We want to make talking over the Internet the most natural, simple thing for people all over the world to do -- no matter which computer they use," said Niklas Zennström, Skype CEO and co-founder. "The new features give Mac users improved ways to communicate and stay in touch with friends, family and colleagues, wherever they may be. We are also delighted to note that Skype was recently recognized with a 2005 Macworld Editors' Choice Award."

New features in Skype 1.4 for Mac OS X include:

* Call forwarding -- have your Skype calls follow you wherever you are.

* Fast call set-up -- simply drag and drop contacts to add them to chats and calls.

* Self-expression -- broadcast your mood along with your online presence. Let your contacts know whether you're happy, sad, listening to your favorite music, available to talk or do not want to be disturbed.

* Call auto-answer and pause -- Skype temporarily pauses iTunes for in-bound and out-bound voice calls, and then resumes iTunes once the call is completed.

* Notifications -- Skype can provide notification of new messages and when users come on- and off-line, along with an overview of available Skype services. In addition, enhanced on-screen or even spoken notifications are now available via the optional Growl notification system (www.growl.com).

Recent announcements by Skype's hardware partners including IPEVO (www.ipevo.com) and Cyberphone-K (www.voipvoice.com) mean that Skype can be used with new Skype compatible USB cordless handsets and USB speakerphones.

Skype for Mac OS X System Requirements

Skype for Mac OS X 1.4 requires a Macintosh computer with Mac OS X v10.3 or newer, a G3, G4, or G5 processor running at a minimum of 400 MHz, 128 MB RAM, 20 MB free disk space, and an Internet connection. Skype for Mac OS X can be used with the built-in speakers and microphone found on many Macintosh models such as the iMac, and can take advantage of add-on speakers, microphones and the Apple iSight camera. A Mac OS X Skype Widget, also available, can dial calls, look up country codes, and check calling rates.

About Skype

Skype is the world's fastest-growing service for Internet communication, allowing people everywhere to make unlimited voice calls for free. Skype is available in 27 languages and is used in almost every country around the world. Skype generates revenue through its premium service offerings such as making and receiving calls to and from landline and mobile phones, as well as voicemail and call forwarding services. Skype also has a growing network of hardware and software partners. Skype is an eBay company (NASDAQ: EBAY). To learn more visit (www.skype.com/).