Like many Nokia users I’ve long hankered after the gmail app for java enabled phones to work with google apps for your domain. Finally google have pulled their finger out and transferred the java app to GAFYD. It is exactly the same as the normal gmail app and you can run them both on the same phone.
They have released this in a quiet fashion. I can’t see the benefit in that as surely they want to entice more business users to their wonderful gmail platform. They already have a blackberry app and iphone users are able to make use of the ‘mail’ application which enables use of IMAP.
So why do you need this app? I like the look an feel of the app, the fact that its not memory intensive and that it retrieves your email pretty quickly. It’s only for java enabled mobile phones such as my N95 and those google apps users. To try it for yourself, head to m.google.com/a from your phone’s web browser.
I’m sure you will have heard of Skype, but for those who have not, here goes.
Skype is an internet telephony system, using proprietary software and protocols. You can make a voice call to anyone in the world provided they have a landline and you have bought skype out credit. If you call another skype user the call will be free. To make a call all you need is a microphone and speakers or alternatively get yourself a usb phones, bluetooth headsets or a wifi phones.
You can also make video calls if you have a webcam or appropriate digital camera. Quality will vary based on your broadband, camera resolution and background lighting.
With the skype desktop client you can chat to fellow skype users and also send them files such as photos, docs or mp3s. This could be useful for families wishing to share pictures of their loved ones.
Price plans are available and if you’re going to make a lot of calls to landlines I would recommend that you get an all inclusive bundle. Price for this will be £1.50 per month for skype pro or without a plan £0.012 per minute.
An alternative method for making skype calls is by using your mobile phone. I do this by using the client that came on my Nokia N95 from three. This allows me to make 3000 skype to skype calls per month for free. It’s a great system that works well over 3g.
There are two negatives to this client:
it does not as yet allow you to message another skype user; or
make use of the skype out facility.
However, disappointing as this is, there is another method to get around this.
fring, is an alternative client which allows mobile phone users to make skype out calls and chat with fellow users. The bonus of fring is that you can also use other voip plans, msn, and google talk.
You can currently buy a pay as you go Skype phone on three for £49.99 which is great value and something that parents and students alike could find very affordable.