Skype for Android Update Adds More Smartphones, Tap-to-Zoom Capabilities

Skype has recently released an update to its Skype for Android app, adding support for several new Android devices.

Skype 2.5 for Android brings video chatting capabilities to 14 new Android devices, bringing the total number of supported gadgets to 41. Some of the new smartphone additions include the Motorola Droid Bionic, the LG Optimus 2x, Motorola Droid 3, the original Google Nexus One, and the Motorola Photon 4G. 

The update also features new video enhancements, according to Skype, such as the ability to zoom with a double tap on the screen and switch between portrait and landscape modes during video calls. The latter feature, however, will not be available on all devices, as Motorola’s Droid 3 and Bionic will only work in the landscape setting.

The latest version of Skype for Android also mends some previous bugs and improves support for Bluetooth headsets, claims Skype. Unfortunately, the updated app also comes with advertisements, though those with Skype subscriptions or account credit can avoid such annoyances.

In addition, the upgrade also brings the video calling feature to Android tablets as well, including the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, the Motorola Xoom and the Acer Iconia. 

The app is free to download via the Android Market. A full list of Android devices now compatible with Skype can be found on the company’s website. 

Earlier this week Skype also issued an update for its iPhone and iPad apps that’s intended to reduce the shakiness of outgoing Skype video chat when using a rear-facing camera, according to the company.  The iOS update also added Bluetooth support as well as advertisements.