This is a blog about free software then you should not write too much about things proprietary.
The problem is not that Skype is proprietary (even if it is), the problem is that it uses a proprietary protocol and closed. Now, does that mean? That means Skype users can communicate only with ... other users of Skype.
do I care?
try for a second to apply this concept to fixed phones, if you are a subscriber of Telefonica and your friend or friend Tim is paid, what would be the consequence? Your friend should subscribe to your own phone to call that nonsense right?
That is what is happening when a friend or a friend of yours Skype uses, everyone has to use q as well. With software that use open protocols and free, no matter what software you use is compatible with everyone.
do I care? Download Skype does not cost a penny!
True, but what if Skype is going to have a monopoly on all users of VoIP software and if all fixed phones will be compatible only with Skype? Skype could decide to charge you too much to use fixed phones compatible and could change their software for a paid software!
do I care? Stop using Skype and I start to use a free alternative!
Well, look what is happening with Microsoft Office. For years now there are free alternatives like OpenOffice and free but the change is not happening or at least is very slow (as with Windows and GNU / Linux). Why? Because technology change in a company cost a lot of money especially with the hardware. So Skype is now becoming an addict, it will be very difficult and expensive to stand even if your diler decides to increase prices too. Skype now is to put your future in the hands of eBay Inc. and Skype Inc.
Ok I'm convinced:) As I can avoid this situation?
is simple, do not use Skype or stop using it NOW. There are many alternatives that use free and open protocols such as SIP and AIX. Tell your friends! This is a blog about Voice over Free IP then just let me give you a free alternative. There are several such Empathy, Ekiga , SIP-Communicator, QuteCom , Sipdroid (Android).
Hope this helps you make the switch to the free world:)
