Skype made a premature launch of its iPad-native VoIP app last night, and quickly removed it from the App Store, claiming it was pulled “To ensure your best Skype experience.” That didn't stop the lucky few who downloaded it from posting lots and lots of screenshots to the Internet, or grabbing the official promo shots (seen above).
The iPhone version of Skype already works just fine on the iPad in pixel-doubled mode. Or I should say it works just like the iPhone version, with the same battery-draining runaway background processes enjoyed by those using it on the iPhone (I have only anecdotal evidence, but the only time I have left Skype running overnight is also the only time my iPad my iPad has overheated and dropped almost a full battery charge in a couple of hours).
Skype for iPad takes advantage of the bigger screen, letting you chat whilst making a video call and showing contact info in popovers. It also duplicates the functionality of the iPhone version, letting you continue a call while you use other apps.
Why would Skype pull the app? My guess is that the now-approved app either has a bug that Skype wants to iron out before going public, or that it has a big announcement planned and wanted to sit on the launch until then. Either way, it can't be long. Time for me to visit the Apple Store and have a Genius take care of the broken mic in my iPad.
source: Gadget Lab
