Julian Spittka is Product Manager and Senior Engineer for Audio and Video at Skype

Today at the National Association of Broadcasters Show in Las Vegas, I had the privilege of presenting about how Skype is opening up new opportunities for broadcasters.

Over the last year, there have been many game-changing developments in the broadcast industry as many broadcasters have looked to technology and social media tools to tap into content from viewers. Look no further than CNN’s iReport that is constantly gathering news tips and multimedia from viewers; or look at The Oprah Winfrey Show, which uses Skype’s High Quality Video calling on a regular basis to include special guests on-air from virtually anywhere.

Broadcasters are embracing Skype because it complements traditional news gathering options (e.g. satellites, camera crews, etc.) in an easy and low cost way. With just a dual-core PC, broadband Internet connection and a webcam, broadcasters can use High Quality Video calling with Skype to fulfil their content needs. Even better yet, millions of people around the world are using Skype already, so it makes it easier for broadcasters to find someone to talk to over Skype.

Skype is continuing to innovate and improve its software to deliver the best voice and video calling experience possible. In the most recent version of Skype for Windows (Version 4.0) call quality is substantially improved. The new audio codec achieves wideband audio quality using 50% less bandwidth than previously required. Moreover, it introduces super wideband audio that delivers crystal clear, richer and warmer sound to those using a compatible headset and a high quality broadband connection.

In addition, as I mentioned during my presentation, Skype is currently testing HD Video calling which can deliver up to 720p. If broadcasters have the pre-requisite HD camera, HD capture card, a fast PC, and enough bandwidth, they too can start testing HD Video calling over Skype.

At Skype, we’re proud to have the best and the brightest audio and video engineers who make it possible for our software to deliver amazing voice and video quality that is so good, even broadcasters love it.

If you’re a broadcaster, and want to find out more, please get in touch.