Microsoft announced on Friday that Skype users will now be able to leave video messages via the Voice over IP service. This new messaging service, which is now undergoing a beta test, will allow users to send video recordings to contacts even if they're offline or on another call.
What's different about this announcement is that it seems aimed more at mobile users than the traditional desktop users of Skype. Users on Windows who receive the video messages will receive a link rather than a video clip, while Android, iOS and even Mac users will receive a video message in their mailbox.
All Skype users will need the most recent software update to utilize the service.
Microsoft is pitching this as an alternative to traditional text or voice messages.
"Skype Video Messaging lets you stay connected with your friends via Skype even when they aren't available," said Microsoft spokesperson Tara Gremillion. "You can now communicate with family and friends, even when they are busy."
Where's the Demand?
While text messaging is widely used for quick exchanges that don't warrant a phone call and voice mail still has its place, the question needs to be asked -- who exactly could benefit from a video message?
"It is like video phone mail, but I can't picture anyone who would want to use it," said Rob Enderle, principal analyst at the Enderle Group.
"The business use isn't there, but it could be something for kids who want to leave messages for parents or a modification of a grandma camera," he suggested.
"It is so much easier to leave a voice mail message or send an instant message," Enderle told TechNewsWorld. "The exception would be if you wanted to send multiple people a clip from your vacation. That sort of thing might be worth it."
Video messaging seems to be a solution without a need -- circumstances that would make a video message worth a thousand words.
"There is a culture change that has to take place," said Greg Sterling, principal analyst at Sterling Market Research. "There hasn't been a reason to use video messaging so far, but it is possible it will become popular. Once you see other people do it, it won't be so strange."
This chicken-and-egg scenario could be solved by the next generation.
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