Skype lets users offer services over net

The new latest version of the Skype is now going to allow its users to offer services using company’s Voice and video network. The latest version 3.1 which is going to be released shortly includes a new release called ‘gold release’ which contains a business directory service which lets the users to make use of different services that have passed the beta stages. But then this offer includes another service ‘beta of Skype Prime’ which is going to be a market place for any user to buy and sell with other members.

Sten Tamkivi, General Manager, Skype e-commerce was explaining their strategy which they are using to provide this market with all basic infrastructure like the invoicing service, private message service and SMEs to monetize on individual knowledge of using voice and video. What does Skype get? Skype get a cut of around 30% per transaction. Tamkivi also commented on the beta service as a ‘sneak peak’ of they are actually planning for future and mentioned that they are already a prime service provider but would not like to jump in with bundle of service which they cant manage effectively. It’s always better to go slow and steady.

The beta service is with certain limited features and right now Skype is planning on to build certain additional categories like the spiritual and astrology, computing, business and finance, coaching and tutoring, creative services, sports and relationship along with multi-language support like English, Italian, German, Japanese and Spanish. The good news is there is no adult or illegal content.

The services that are already available includes a language tutoring and advise on the procedure of getting into foreign universities, offered a by Taipei based PhD engineering student. That’s not all, a nid reading service over IP offered by a netherland based magician, Tamkivi.

How to purchase these services? The user can use their credit card to buy these services and Skype will pay the providers using PayPal which is Skype Sister Company. The buyer can negotiate the rates at the beginning of the call and have to set them up between €0.40-€2 (£0.27-£1.37) per minute or €0.40-€10 (£0.27-£6.85) per call. This amount is excluding VAT which can well be 15% as it’s a Luxembourg based company.

Skype is also going to offer a customer support for any service providers whoever is interested!