Skype Pulls Plug on Smart TV App

Starting in June of this year, Skype will no longer provide support for its smart TV app. To which I say, "Skype had a smart TV app?"

Six years after launching its Skype for TV application, the company has come to the conclusion that the majority of us would rather use the apps on our smartphones.

"Since 2010, Skype has delivered a great calling experience in the living room in partnership with several TV manufacturers. But over the years, users have changed the way they use Skype, with the majority accessing it from a mobile device – including when in the living room," a statement on Skype's website explained. "We want to make sure we prioritize delivering the best possible experience to the platforms our users are asking for, which is why we’ve decided to focus our efforts in other areas while supporting key functionality on Skype for TV for as long as possible."

As to whether those diehard Skype Ltd. smart TV users will still be able to use the app, Skype, which is a subsidiary of Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT), said it was up to the TV manufacturers. Those diehard users can expect diminishing returns over time as manufacturer support wanes.

On a somewhat related note, I can recall when "caller ID on TV" was a big deal for service providers and their customers. While caller ID on TV has become table stakes, the service has trained users to look at their TV screens when their home phones ring (for those who still have home phones).

— Mike Robuck, Editor, Telco Transformation