* Skype brings VoIP to Linux
Linux users green with envy over their Skype-using Windows counterparts can now relax. The Luxemburg-based company last week introduced versions of its popular softphone client for Linux and Mac users.
Skype is a PC-based softphone client, allowing users to make phone calls to other Skype users over the Internet for free. For a fee, users can also call regular phone numbers, with costs varying depending on what country codes are dialed.
The software, built by the makers of the file-swapping Kazaa program, also provides some handy tools and features. The software includes a five-way conference call feature, as well as call logging and speed-dial settings. Instant messaging and presence features are rolled into the software, allowing users to see who is available for a live or IM chat. The software also includes a file-transferring tool, allowing Skype users to swap files among each other.
Skype for Linux 1.0 will work on several Linux distributions, including SuSE 9, Gentoo 1.4, Debian, Fedora Core 2, Sun Java Desktop System Release 2 and Xandros. The software works in both the KDE and Gnome desktop environments.
Of course Skype for Linux 1.0 is not the only choice for making calls from a Linux PC. SJ Labs has developed a softphone client for Linux called SJphone that works on both H.323 and Session Initiation Protocol VoIP networks. The software works on the Free World Dialup VoIP network.
An outfit called Wirlabs has had its KPhone software out since 2002. Also based on SIP, KPhone works on KDE Linux desktops and supports SIP signaling.
