Apr 27 2009
Skype Extras
Skype has quickly become the way to call – from your Mac to your online friends or even regular phones. There are all kinds of things you can do with Skype (like podcast interviews) and with the API released, there will be even more to come.
New in this version: better growl support for alerts, call forwarding and a menu item to change status. Skype has gone from crusty beta to a very Mac friendly app.
Dial calls from your desktop with the Skype widget. That’s pretty much it. Handy for Dashboard junkies.
Yes, the new version of Skype includes a menu item to change your status, but it only runs while Skype is running. To quickly launch Skype from the menubar, you’ll want this little free app.
This extra improves Address Book integration, letting you dial contacts right from the address book.
We’ve looked at this one before. Soundflower creates a virtual audio channel on your Mac that you can use to record audio from apps to other apps, for example recording Skype conversations to Garage Band or Audacity.
Not a Skyper? There are alternatives:
The Gizmo project is very similar to Skype, but has an open infrastructure. It is very Mac friendly and interfaces with other SIP accounts. Like Skype, Gizmo is great at finding its way out of complex firewall and network configurations.
This VOIP solution adds video, and as it promises, lets you yak for free. The interface is rough, but video works!
Maybe 2006 is the year to go digital with your phone. There are certainly plenty of options for you.