FaceTime

FaceTime calling will get more convenient when iOS 6 is released this fall, but only for those with A5 devices. More details in the fine print have revealed that Apple plans to limit cellular data FaceTime calling to the iPhone 4S and new iPad. Older models including the iPhone 4 and iPad 2 are left out of the fun.

This means that older iPhone owners, already lacking Siri, must remain connected to a Wi-Fi network to make or receive a FaceTime video call. The news comes as no big surprise, as Apple typically limits some iOS updates to newer devices, especially when hardware limitations are an issue. Already news has surfaced that the new Maps application will limit turn-by-turn navigation to the iPhone 4S as well.

Developers playing with iOS 5 beta 3 have discovered that it features AirPlay mirroring. AirPlay allows you to mirror your FaceTime video chats to a larger screen. If AirPlay mirroring makes it to the final version of iOS 5, your iPhone or iPad could change business conferences, future Twilight fan club meetings, or long distance family chats. No more trying to huddle around your iPad to wave at Grandma.

The initial images of AirPlay from iOS 5 aren't that impressive (see above), but it seems like a small price to pay for the possible benefits. However, AirPlay may get a boost from the next generation iPhone or iPad, depending of what kind of camera they have.

The next-generation iPhone hardware is reportedly in its "final testing stage," and looks to be on schedule for a fall launch, However, an Apple source told 9to5Mac that a deal has yet to be reached for 3G FaceTime over Verizon's network, and that the new iPhone may not have an 8-megapixel camera like we previously reported.

Currently FaceTime is limited over a WiFi connection, or jailbroken phones that trick the device into thinking it's using a WiFi network. Even though iOS 5 supports 3G FaceTime and over-the-air updates, Verizon is still working out kinks and may be delayed in delivering both.

Now iPhone owners have another way to join Android users in a video chat. Qik Video Connect Plus has been released on iTunes for $2.99. A free version is in the works and is currently being reviewed by Apple. For those who are not familiar with Qik, the app offers an alternative to FaceTime and has been pre-installed on many Android devices.

Besides real-time video calling, Qik offers a variety of other features. Video mail messages can be sent to friends, and live video can be broadcast on the web for your contacts to watch live. The plus version of Qik includes real-time video effects, syncing with the camera roll and support for HD video.

Skype has released version 3.0 of its iOS application with full support for 3G video calling to other Skype members. This app will give FaceTime a run for its money, as Apple's video conferencing solution is currently limited to Wi-Fi only.

The Skype app of course supports audio calling for iPhones lacking a front facing camera and Skype text chat. Skype 3.0 is available now on iTunes for free and works on iPhones running iOS version 3.0 and later.