Skype previews 'Skypecasts'

Voice over IP giant Skype is extending its reach with large hosted calls using the latest Skype beta in conjunction with 'Skypecasts'.

Skypecasts is a free audio conferencing service offered by Skype that allows for up to 100 participants to converse from anywhere in the world.

Skype is used mainly for peer-to-peer voice conversations, but also features voice conferencing for up to 10 people. Skypecasting changes the rules a little, as things are likely to get out of control with up to 100 people trying to speak at the same time. As a result, Skypecasts will be moderated by a host who controls when individuals can speak.

A directory of current Skypecasts can be found on the company's homepage. The VoIP giant sees Skypecasting as a way for people to discuss shared interests and hobbies with real-time voice chat.

The new Skype 2.5 beta also incorporates a number of new features, including the ability to send text messages to mobile phones for a small fee, contacts in Microsoft Outlook can be called directly from Skype and paying for calls to landline or mobile phones via the application, instead of using Skype's website to buy credit.

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