For a FREE application, skype is great. You only need to pay out to make calls to landlines/mobile phones. I had been using version 2.7.0.330 for over a year, and had always been able to have video/audio chats without any hassle. There were some bad days where I had some miserable connectivity, but I can't even be sure if that problem wasn't due to my own internet connection.

I am now using version 2.8.0.324 beta, and will see how it goes. Keep in mind users, this IS a beta version. That means you may encounter some bugs. Basically, I'm supportive of skype developers in improving their application even further and will help them by installing the beta version on my computer. I will inform them of bugs that can be fixed - and this is how a community works. You shouldn't compare a FREE application to one that COSTS you money.

Skype has been a simple, dependable, and free way for me to keep in touch with people.