Can anyone please elaborate for a tech-challenged on Rick's recent write-up: "Even the iPod Touch — which isn't designed as a phone — can be used to make Skype calls to computers or phones, if you have an external microphone and a Wi-Fi connection. Tech-savvy travelers should do some homework before their trip to fully understand these ever-evolving options."
Posted by
Orlando
191 posts
Ken, you will need to purchase the iphone headset which contains a microphone in one of the lines leading to an earbud. The iphone earbuds look and function just like the itouch earbuds, but have that all important microphone. Just go to your apple store or purchase online. I believe the cost is the same for the touch earbuds and the iphone ones, $30. Also your touch needs to be at least the second generation. The first generation of itouch does not contain the requisite microphone circuitry. After that download the skype app from the App Store.
You might find it easier to first download and install Skype on your computer. You can play and learn more easily how to use skype on your computer than on your itouch. At least that was my own experience.
I will say that it works great and calls are clear and simple to make. Well worth the time and effort spent.
Posted by
Freedonia
15309 posts
If you have the third generation Itouch, then the includced ear buds have a microphone.
Posted by
New England
312 posts
If you buy a 3 generation iTouch with the 32 gig you get the ear buds with microphone. The 8gig just has regular ear buds, no mic.
Just bought the 32 gig :-)
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
1525 posts
Never tried this before, but I did just get a touch w/mic buds and I was always curious.
Can I call anyone on their regular phone, or do I have to "call" someone who is sitting there on their computer waiting for my call.
These are totally different things, IMO, and never clarified when techies talk about the thrills of Skyping.
Posted by
Ottawa, Canada
4555 posts
You can use Skype to call other Skype users for free, or you can purchase credits and call landlines (and cell phones in the U.S.) for about 2 1/2 cents/minute.