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Skype launches gift cards, lets parents drop hints to distant kids

Many empty-nester parents would like nothing more than to hear from their kids every now and then. For them, Skype's new gift cards might be the perfect not-so-subtle clue: both digital and physical cards are going on sale today that offer $10 or more in credit, either for the company's time-honored VoIP calling or (if need be) some Skype WiFi at the airport. Only online versions are customizable, although Americans who want something tangible can swing by the Microsoft Store, OfficeMax or Target. Skype's already brought prepaid credit to Mexico and the UK, but the cards should be more than welcome gift options for anyone who would otherwise have to spring for a prepaid phone card -- just be prepared for more heart-to-heart chats than usual if you're on the receiving end.

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It's Better to Give and Receive with Skype Gift Cards

Wouldn't the best holiday gift for your far-flung friends and family be the chance to spend some time together? Short of shelling out for plane tickets or enduring long train rides, there is another way to keep in touch with friends and family, no matter where they are...you can give the gift of Skype.

Skype-to-Skype calls are always free, but what about Skype calls to mobile phones and land lines? Or using Skype to send text messages to mobile devices anywhere in the world? With Skype's new Gift Cards, sharing all of Skype's calling features is easier than ever before. In the U.S., Skype Gift Cards are available at select retail locations including Microsoft Stores, Target and OfficeMax. You can also purchase e-Gift Cards, that can be delivered online to your friends and family, through the Skype Shop and on our Facebook page starting at $10.

Whether you are sending a Skype Gift Card loaded with Skype credit to your daughter studying abroad in Australia or your father back in Brazil, everyone appreciates the gift of staying in touch. Skype Gift Cards let people take advantage of features like calling mobiles and landlines from Skype and also make it possible to use Skype's WiFi at millions of global hotspots.

Imagine giving your best friend the chance to call or text you on your mobile, and you pay the bill – even if they live in India and you live in the US. Skype overcomes the communication limitations of the past and allows friends and family to get in touch even when you're not online.

Not only is the Skype Gift Card affordable and easy to purchase, but you can also create your Gift Card in the Skype Shop or in Facebook, pay with your credit card or PayPal and have it delivered to the recipient of your choice via email. Rather than just giving generic cash as a gift, Skype Gift Cards can be accompanied by a personal message. If you buy one on Facebook, you can add a photo, audio or video message to show that you've given the gift some thought.

A Skype Gift Card is much more than just a gift for the holidays: because it is amazingly convenient to purchase, give and use, it makes for an ideal present for any occasion or any time you need to maintain relationships with friends and family across distance.

Keep your friends and family talking this holiday season! Learn more about Skype Gift Cards by visiting the Skype Shop or our Facebook page.