December 21st, 2005 -- Mandriva, publisher of the popular Mandriva Linux operating system, announced today that the Mandriva 2006 Linux operating system integrates software from Skype to add free voice calling over the Internet capabilities. Mandriva Linux 2006 offers out-the-box use of Skype's popular application.
The two companies have worked closely to provide users a special version of Skype’s software customized for Mandriva 2006. The resulting application enables customers to start using the voice calling feature immediately – without going through a supplementary installation.
“As the reference platform in desktop Linux, Mandriva is committed to bringing the best possible user experience throughout the various computing requirements,” said François Bancilhon, Mandriva CEO. “Voice over IP is a hot technology that many of our customers are interested in using. Skype has leadership in this area and offers innovative, easy-to-use software.”
With Mandriva Linux 2006, users will be able to easily make business or personal phones calls all over the world using their computer, while taking advantage of local rates. Customers can connect from PC to PC, PC to landline phone, or PC to mobile phone. Additional features, such as voice mail and call forwarding, are also available.
“Skype has worked hard to ensure that our software is easy to use and accessible to everyone,” said James Bilefield, vice president of business development for Skype. “This collaboration with Mandriva broadens our reach into the Linux space, while maintaining the high call quality Skype users demand.”
The use of Skype’s voice calling application on Mandriva Linux 2006 brings customers:
- High quality phone calls over the Internet
- Skype's Global Directory - the user-built global Skype contacts directory with numerous search options and an easy add-a-contact tool
- Instant messaging – cross platform messaging ability
- Conference calling – instantly create a free 5-party conference call
- Logs – reference or discard call and message history
- Presence – easily manage availability and view status of contacts
- Customization – MyPicture image display, ring tones, call alert options
- File transfer –send and receive files via Skype
- Mobility – sign in to a Skype account anywhere in the world
- SkypeOut –pre-pay to call traditional phones around the world, at local rates
- Multiple Skype accounts on one computer
- End-to-end encryption for superior privacy
About Mandriva Linux 2006
Mandriva Linux 2006 is the result of the convergence of three leading Linux technologies. Widely recognized as one of the easiest to use operating systems, it blends desktop and server features from Conectiva and Lycoris, two Linux publishers acquired by Mandriva. Mandriva 2006 offers the ultimate in Linux for a wide array of computing requirements such as office, multimedia, Internet and servers. It is the only Linux system to be officially compliant with Intel® Centrino® mobile technology and to offer complete integration of the Skype free voice calling over Internet software. Other key features include desktop search, interactive firewall and auto-install server functionality.
Mandriva Linux is available in three editions: Discovery/Lx (for the Linux beginner), PowerPack (for the advanced computer user) and PowerPack+ (for SOHO users).
About Skype
Skype is the world’s fastest growing service for Internet communication, allowing people everywhere to make unlimited voice calls for free. Skype is available in 27 languages and is used in almost every country around the world. Skype generates revenue through its premium service offerings such as making and receiving calls to and from landline and mobile phones, as well as voicemail and call forwarding services. Skype also has a growing network of hardware and software partners. Skype is an eBay company (NASDAQ: EBAY).
About Mandriva
Mandriva, formerly known as Mandrakesoft, is the publisher of the popular Mandriva Linux operating system, one of the most full-featured and easy to use Linux systems. The company offers its enterprise, government and educational customers a complete range of GNU/Linux and Open Source software and related services. Mandriva products are available in more than 140 countries through dedicated channels and also from store.mandriva.com, the company's online store.
"Born on the Internet" in late 1998, Mandriva has offices in the United States, France and Brazil. Mandriva is traded on Paris Euronext Marché Libre (ISIN Code: FR0004159382/MLMAN; Reuters code: MAKE.PA) and the US OTC market (stock symbol MDKFF).
www.mandriva.com
