NVIDIA Develops Android Skype HD Video Calling For Tegra 2

NVIDIA has developed an Android Skype HD video calling reference platform, using the VoIP company's SkypeKit SDK. The implementation, demonstrated at NVIDIA's CES 2011 press conference today on an Android tablet, relies on Tegra 2's native high-definition video processing capabilities, and promises cross-platform HD video calls.

"We are excited that NVIDIA has leveraged SkypeKit to build a reference implementation of HD video calling on Android Tablets. In the near future, consumers will be able to make video calls from their Tegra-powered Tablets to anyone else using Skype, whether it's on a PC, Mac, TVs, or phones." Manrique Brenes, Director of Business Development at Skype

So far, Skype supports audio-only on Android devices, with video calls – not in HD – only available in the recently released iOS version of the company's app. The NVIDIA reference implementation will mean that PC and Mac users of Skype with HD webcams will be able to hold full resolution video conversations with Tegra 2 based tablets and superphones.

There's no word from Skype as to when – or even if – they will be releasing the SkypeKit-based HD video call app, though we're guessing they'll be offering the technology to device manufacturers using the Tegra 2 chipset in their phones and tablets. That will hopefully include the LG Optimus 2X, which has a 1.3-megapixel front-facing camera for video calls, in addition to its 8-megapixel rear camera.