games

Skype brings video calling to PlayStationVita

Skype, now available for download via PlayStationNetwork, marks the first time video calling has been available on PlayStation.

Skype has announced that their video calling is now available on PlayStationVita handheld entertainment system (PS Vita), expanding Skype video calling capabilities to a mobile gaming device for the first time.

PS Vita system, which launched in early 2012, will offer video calling capabilities and voice calling on both the Wi-Fi and 3G models*. PS Vita system users can download the application for free from the "Social" category of the PlayStationStore today across PAL territories.

"Our users appreciate being able to access Skype features wherever and whenever they choose," said Manrique Brenes, senior director of emerging opportunities at Skype.

"With the launch of Skype for PS Vita, we are taking another step towards our ultimate goal of making Skype video calling available on every platform, all over the world, and meeting the demands of existing PlayStation users to offer video on a gaming console."

Skype on PS Vita system runs in "background mode" for users while gaming or using other applications** and users have the capability to "pause" a game, conduct a call and then return to their previous activity.  Additionally, PS Vita system features both front and rear facing cameras, which allows users to switch back and forth between the two during a Skype call. This is a great benefit of never missing a call even when playing a game or using another app.

* Voice and video calls will require a Wi-Fi connection in some countries.

** Certain games will shut off network connectivity during use, which will stop incoming Skype calls.