When announcing his company's acquisition of Skype back in May, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer was quick to assure all concerned that there would be ample room under the Redmond umbrella going forward. "Products and services that Skype users know today will grow and be enhanced," he said. "We will continue to invest in Skype for non-Microsoft devices."
And while the deal has yet to be finalized, last night's long-anticipated release of Skype for iPad had the look of a down payment on Ballmer's promise.
(Did you notice that it's 802.11 Day?)
At least briefly.
For within hours of appearing on Apple's virtual shelves, Skype for iPad disappeared. Skype offered something of an explanation via its Twitter account with a pair of messages that read:
To ensure your best Skype experience, we've temporarily removed Skype for iPad which went live prematurely today.
We know you've been eagerly awaiting Skype for iPad and apologize for the inconvenience.
In between the "premature" release and subsequent retreat, the Internet did what the Internet does with every morsel of Apple-related news.
For example, 9to5Mac had a full report that included demonstration video, screens shots and detailed release notes:
Skype has finally released their native application for the Apple iPad. The application brings everything you love from the iPhone version to the iPad's larger display. This includes instant messaging, audio chatting, and video conferencing. Just like the iPhone version, everything works over both WiFi and 3G cellular data networks.
Sharp-eyed readers will now notice the words "Update: removed" have been added to its headline.
A ZDNet writer waxed poetic about how Skype for iPad will help him stay connected to his family when he travels.
And then poof - just like magic - it was gone.
There's no word yet from Skype as to how temporary this temporary removal might last.
(Update: And now it's back.)
(Update 2: And here is Skype's blog post trumpeting the news.)
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