Skype, the free VoIP service from the developers of KaZaA, raised US$18.8 million in second round funding for its consumer voice offering. Skype uses P2P (peer-to-peer) technology to provide free worldwide phone calls to other Skype users. The company is building a global user directory. It is also offering headsets and handsets that work with its service. The venture money will be used to expand global operations and enhance its consumer offering.
Since its beta release in August 2003, individuals from more than 165 countries have downloaded Skype’s free VoIP software 8.8 million times. Skype P2P software features conference calling, multiple call hold, the global directory, instant messaging, call history, personal ring tones, call alert options, and free calling to users around the globe. The software is now available in 15 languages.
The investment round was led by the venture capital firms, Draper Fisher Jurvetson and Index Ventures. http://www.skype.com
- Skype is currenty based in Luxembourg with personnel in Copenhagen, London, Stockholm, and Tallinn.
