Skype expands mobile user base and bolsters video with Qik buy

Further solidifying its push into the mobile video calling space, Skype has announced that it will be acquiring mobile video software and services provider Qik. A number of news sources claim that the deal will go for about $100 million, but neither company would reveal any financial terms.

Qik has provided mobile phone users the ability record and broadcast live video over their mobile data plan. It is easy to see why the technology would be of interest to the VoIP company looking to get into live video communications in a big way. Qik already works on over 200 mobile phones and on operating systems including iOS, Android, BlackBerry, Windows Mobile and Symbian.

The move could instantly expand Skype's mobile VoIP customers. Beyond the expansion of users and operating systems, Skype also has its eyes on Qik's engineering expertise and its Smart Streaming technology, which optimizes video transmission over wireless networks.

For more:
- read this release
- read Skype's blog

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