The Introduction of Video calling via 3G by Fring has created tons of problems, it has become a controversial issue! The point of contention is fring’s video chat feature, which allowed for Skype video calls over 3G, until Skype pulled the plug. Skype claims that the service is being blocked because fring breached their developer agreement, while fring is accusing Skype of being “afraid of open mobile communication.”
Skype’s Story : Skype legal honcho Robert Miller shot back, saying it was fring’s decision: “Fring made the decision to remove Skype functionality on its own,” Miller wrote on the Skype blog. They did note that “Fring was using Skype software in a way it wasn’t designed to be used,” claiming that this was “in breach of Skype’s API Terms of Use and End User License Agreement.” So it could be that there is a bit more to the story than Skype is acknowledging.
Fring’s Story : fring’s CEO and Co-Founder, Avi Shechter, added his own personal comments to the statement:
“We are disappointed that Skype, who once championed the cause of openness, is now attempting to muzzle competition, even to the detriment of its own users. We apologize to our users for the impact of Skype’s bullying and we will be happy to reconnect with Skype once Skype reverses their decision. We believe in communication openness and know that users will continue to vote with their mobile phones – opting for fring’s innovation, clarity, honesty and openness.”
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