Skype, available for download via PlayStation®Network, marks the first time video calling has been available on PlayStation 

Sydney, 26 April 2012 – Skype announced today that Skype video calling is now available on PlayStation®Vita handheld entertainment system (PS Vita), expanding Skype video calling capabilities to a mobile gaming device for the first time. PS Vita system, which launched in early 2012, will offer video calling capabilities and voice calling on both the Wi-Fi and 3G models*. PS Vita system users can download the application for free from the “Social” category of the PlayStation®Store across PAL territories.

“Our users appreciate being able to access Skype features wherever and whenever they choose,” said Manrique Brenes, senior director of emerging opportunities at Skype.   “With the launch of Skype for PS Vita, we are taking another step towards our ultimate goal of making Skype video calling available on every platform, all over the world, and meeting the demands of existing PlayStation users to offer video on a gaming console.”

Skype on PS Vita system runs in “background mode” for users while gaming or using other applications** and users have the capability to “pause” a game, conduct a call and then return to their previous activity.  Additionally, PS Vita system features both front and rear facing cameras, which allows users to switch back and forth between the two during a Skype call. This is a great benefit of never missing a call even when playing a game or using another app.

PS Vita system is available for $349.95 (RRP) for Wi-Fi and $449.95 (RRP) for Wi-Fi/3G models.  The device is also equipped with a 5” OLED screen (touchscreen), rear touch pad, dual analog sticks, two cameras and a built in microphone.

For more information on Skype for PS Vita, http://au.playstation.com/psvita  or please visit skype.com