Mobile IM client, fring, today alleged Skype has blocked services to be accessed via its application. fring is a multi-IM client that supports GTalk, SIP, Twitter and Skype. Now, its users are not able to make Skype calls. fring had a few days ago released a new version of its iPhone 4 app that allowed its users to make video calls over 3G to other iPhone, Android and Symbian smartphone users. The company then announced that they were overwhelmed with traffic and had to restrict Skype calls.



Today, fring alleged that Skype is a coward and is afraid of open mobile communication after the former announced video calling feature and “expanded capacity to support the huge demand for video calling.”



It seems very unlikely to us that Skype would block a third-party app because of fear of competition. We have not seen the end of this fight, yet and are certain to hear more from Skype in the next few hours. There has to be something more to it.



Update: Skype’s PR team reached out to us with their reply:

“Skype has been in discussions with Fring regarding our belief that Fring is breaching our API Terms of Use and End User Licence Agreement. Skype is disappointed that an amicable resolution was not possible. There is no truth to Fring’s claims that Skype blocked them, it was their decision and choice to withdraw Skype functionality.



Skype encourages openness and supports developers to build products that work with Skype in accordance with our various API licences. In this case Fring violated Skype’s terms by misusing the Skype software in ways which it was not designed for and which does not scale to meet consumer demand. Just this past weekend Fring had to pull down Skype support for their iPhone video client which further damaged the Skype brand and disappointed consumers yet again.



Skype will rigorously protect its brand and reputation and those companies that do not comply with our terms will be subject to enforcement.”