For the first time in its history, a VoIP solution provider Skype launches advertising module integrated in its software. The ads to be published in Skype will feature multimedia functionality and include video, audio and the ability to call the advertiser as well as integration with the most popular social media websites. According to adrants.com, the size of the homepage ad will measure 650 X 170 and will expand to 650 X 340.

Image: www.adrants.com

Skype is said to have partnered with Ad2one in the UK, Meebo in the US and Stroer Interactive in Germany to sell advertising in the national markets. The list of advertisers who expressed their intention to cooperate with Skype to date includes Groupon, Nokia, Universal and Visa, etc. At the initial period, the ad service will only be available in the UK, USA, and Germany.

Skype CMO Doug Bewsher commented on the launch of advertising platform on Skype, «The user experience on Skype is always job number one. So, we’ve spent a lot of time working through the best way to show advertising in the Skype environment. We believe our daily sponsorship ad from one brand per day is valuable for premier advertisers, but doesn’t detract from the experience for our users. We are just taking our first steps in this space and we expect to test and learn a lot as we move forward.»