Skype recently released a new version for the Skype for Pocket PC software and it finally supports devices that were dropped in the previous version. This means that Samsung-based processors, which includes the Eten Glofiish models, are finally able to use the latest version of Skype and make voice calls. And why shouldn’t you? The latest version seems to work really well on EDGE/GPRS and the volume of calls are much louder as well. But the Skype Switch somehow does not work with the latest version.

For those who are in the dark, the Skype Receiver Switch is a software developed by Eten Corp to transfer Skype calls from the loud speaker to the ear piece so that you can make Skype calls just like a normal call, without having to share your conversation with those around you and/or having to use a headset. It was a pretty nifty piece of software and was only available on Eten devices, and was also one of the reasons I jumped on the Eten bandwagon. But with this latest release, Eten seems to have lost its edge. Here’s how you can get it back

Option 1: Use Old Version Of Skype

If you do not need to use Skype over EDGE/GPRS and the volume of calls are good enough for you, then the older version of Skype (v2.1.0.65) would be enough for you. You can get the file here and install it onto your device (Main Memory or Storage Card works fine). The Skype Receiver Switch works as it should and all Skype calls will be automatically redirected. Problem solved.

Option 2: Use An Additional Software

If you still need or want to use the newer version of Skype, then be advised that this solution is a manual one. You will still need to have Skype Receiver Switch and the latest Skype version (currently at v2.2.0.37) installed but on top of that, you will need Switch, a simple program written by tonychen. This software will redirect all audio from the loud speaker to the earpiece, not just Skype calls.

There are 2 problems with this option. The first is that you need to manually turn the switch on and off before and after each Skype call respectively. If you leave the switch on, then all sound, including ring alerts for incoming calls will only be heard through the loud speaker and chances are, you might miss it. The other drawback is that if you were to leave the Switch running and then quit Skype, you will not be able to launch Skype again until you quit the program.

Which Solution To Use?

Again this varies from individual to individual. I have not seen anything in v2.2 that would pull me from v2.1, seeing how I am happy with the earlier version. Plus, v2.1 is a more automated process f0r audio redirection which is what I prefer and thus would be sticking to it. I do agree that v2.2 does bring some new improvements to it so I would recommend that you try out both versions and solutions and see which one works better for you.

Additional Pointers

Here are some additional pointers for using Skype which I have gathered from around the web:

• Set Microphone Gain to 70% for better recorded call quality in v.2.2.0.37. (from hamkeng of Eten Users Forum).
• Use a wired headset to make Skype calls for better quality and volume.
• Use a WiFi or 3G connection for mobile connections. However, there have been claims that the newer version works great over EDGE/GPRS as well.
• Install to Main Memory for better response. (This is subjective and depends on the Memory Card you are using in my opinion).

The tips given above with regards to audio redirection is only applicable to Eten devices that have such capability such as the M600 onwards. Using the same software on devices not meant for it might break your device. However, the tips with regards to Skype in general are applicable across all models of Pocket PC running Windows Mobile. Happy Skyping!

How is your Skype experience?

Tags: guide, patch