TechBytes: Skype for iPhone Updated

Apple TV makeover, new Kindle expected, honoring our soldiers online

BRETT LEVY, TINA TRINH and CARRIE HALPERIN

May 31, 2010, 10:52 AM ET

2 min read

May 31, 2010— -- The Internet calling service Skype has released an update to its iPhone app, which will allow users to make and receive calls over AT&T's 3G network. Until now, the service was only available over Wi-Fi. The calls are free for now, but that won't last long. The company says Skype-to-Skype 3G service won't cost anything until at least the end of August. After that, there will be a small monthly fee.

Apple TV Makeover?

Earlier this month, Google announced that it's getting into the TV business with a new service called Smart TV. It looks like Apple may not be far behind. The company is reportedly giving it's Apple TV product a makeover. The device currently lets users buy and store movies and TV shows, then play them on their TV sets.

The new version is said to be focused on streaming movies and shows from over the Web, and will run on the iPhone's software, which means we will probably see apps for the TV.

New Kindle Expected

Amazon appears to have a new Kindle in the works. Bloomberg News is reporting the online retailer plans to introduce the next version of its electronic book reader in August. The new device is said to be thinner and have a more responsive screen, so the pages turn faster. It will also have a sharper contrast to make it look more like a real book. But the new Kindle will not include a touch screen or color.

Honoring Our Soldiers Online

Facebook users can honor our fallen soldiers online on this Memorial Day thanks to a new app. Facebook is launching the app today to remember the more than 2 million Americans who have died in service, from the Revolutionary War to today's wars. The goal is to get as many members as possible to update their status with a message that honors a soldier and the war they fought in. Users can pay tribute to a randomly selected soldier, or a loved one. You can sign up at apps.facebook.com/honorthem.