Skype for iPad for iOS

Skype for iPad is a finely implemented mobile version of the incredibly popular global communication tool, complete with voice and video chat, contact management, and more. Where other desktop apps stumble in their transition to the touch screen, Skype thrives and it shows in nearly every facet of its iPad release.

When you open Skype for iPad, you must either sign in or create a new account. After doing so you can import contacts from any of your existing accounts -- including Outlook, Mail, or Apple's iContacts. Your contact list will populate on the right of the screen and you can connect with someone by tapping their portrait. The portraits are often fuzzy, but that's because of the desktop resolutions, not your iPad. Adding new contacts is easy, as is dialing someone directly if using Web-to-voice calling. While there are not nearly as many options here, such as file attachments or note taking, you can send video messages and photos remotely, even if the other person is offline.

Skype for iPad is not a full-featured version of the software -- you'll need a desktop or laptop for that -- but it perfectly captures what you will need and want out of the software when using your iPad on the go. This is a solid, well-executed piece of software in many ways.

• You can now blur your camera background on Skype for iPad.
• Bug fixes and stability improvements.