iChat vs. Skype — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on December 14, 2023
iChat is Apple's native instant messaging application for Mac OS X, while Skype is a global communication platform by Microsoft offering video calls, voice calls, and instant messaging.
Difference Between iChat and Skype
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
iChat, developed by Apple, was a proprietary instant messaging software for Mac OS X users. Skype, on the other hand, is a communication platform created by a team in Estonia and later acquired by Microsoft, offering a range of communication features, including voice and video calls.
While iChat was specifically tailored for the Mac environment and integrated with Apple services like Apple ID, Skype is a cross-platform application available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and various mobile devices. This means Skype can be used by a more diverse user base, irrespective of their device or operating system.
iChat's features included one-on-one messaging, video conferencing, and file sharing, primarily among Apple users. Skype, besides offering messaging and file sharing, is well-known for its voice and video calls and even has features for group calls, which can include both Skype users and telephone numbers.
A unique feature of iChat was its integration with other Apple applications, allowing users to communicate and share directly from apps like Address Book or Mail. Skype, with its broader reach, provides additional features such as Skype credits for making international calls, screen sharing, and even real-time translation in some cases.
Over time, iChat was phased out by Apple and replaced with the Messages app, which inherited many of iChat's features and added more functionalities. Skype, still active, continues to evolve, adding new features and integrations, especially within the Microsoft ecosystem.
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Comparison Chart
Developer
Apple
Initially by an Estonian team, later acquired by Microsoft
Platform
Mac OS X
Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux, Mobile)
Primary Features
Instant messaging, video conferencing, file sharing
Voice calls, video calls, instant messaging, file sharing, group calls
Integration
Integrated with Apple services
Integrates with Microsoft services and allows calls to phone numbers
Current Status
Phased out, replaced by Messages app
Still active and evolving
Compare with Definitions
iChat
IChat was known for its seamless integration with other Apple applications and services.
IChat allowed me to instantly share files from my Address Book.
Skype
Skype is known for its cross-platform compatibility, making it accessible to diverse users.
Whether you're on a Windows PC or an iPhone, we can connect via Skype.
iChat
IChat was eventually replaced by Apple's Messages app, which expanded its features and compatibility.
After the introduction of the Messages app, I transitioned from iChat for a more comprehensive experience.
Skype
Skype is a global communication platform that offers video and voice calls, as well as instant messaging.
I'll Skype you later to discuss the project details.
iChat
IChat offered integrated video conferencing and instant messaging functionalities.
We had a group video conference on iChat last night.
Skype
Skype integrates seamlessly within the Microsoft ecosystem, benefiting from added features and tools.
With my Office 365 subscription, I can schedule Skype meetings directly from Outlook.
iChat
IChat is Apple's proprietary messaging software designed for Mac OS X.
I used iChat to communicate with my friends who also had Macs.
Skype
Skype provides functionalities beyond messaging, like international calls using Skype credits.
I used Skype credits to call my cousin in Australia.
iChat
IChat was specifically designed for Apple users, limiting its compatibility to the Mac ecosystem.
If you weren't on a Mac, we couldn't chat using iChat.
Skype
Skype offers group calling features, allowing multiple participants in a single call.
Our team had a Skype group call to brainstorm ideas.
Skype
To make (a telephone call) using Skype software.
Skype
To send (a message or file) with Skype.
Skype
To contact (a person) via Skype.
I'll skype you tomorrow. We can skype for a couple of hours.
Common Curiosities
Can I use iChat on Windows?
No, iChat was specifically designed for Mac OS X.
What is iChat?
iChat is an instant messaging software developed by Apple for Mac OS X.
Who developed Skype?
Skype was initially developed by an Estonian team and was later acquired by Microsoft.
Was video conferencing available on iChat?
Yes, iChat supported video conferencing among its features.
What replaced iChat for Apple users?
iChat was replaced by the Messages app from Apple.
Can I integrate Skype with other Microsoft services?
Yes, Skype is well-integrated within the Microsoft ecosystem, including services like Outlook.
How does Skype support business users differently?
Skype offers a business version called Skype for Business, which provides added features suitable for corporate communication.
Why was iChat phased out?
iChat was phased out in favor of the Messages app, which combined iChat's features with new functionalities.
Is Skype's instant messaging feature encrypted?
Yes, Skype uses end-to-end encryption for its instant messaging.
Is Skype available on mobile devices?
Yes, Skype has apps for various mobile platforms including iOS and Android.
Could iChat be used for business purposes?
While iChat was primarily consumer-focused, businesses could use it for communication, especially within the Apple ecosystem.
Are both iChat and Skype free to use?
While iChat was free for Apple users, Skype is free for basic features but charges for services like calling phone numbers or using advanced business features.
How did iChat differentiate from regular messaging apps?
iChat was deeply integrated with Apple services and offered features like video conferencing and direct file sharing from Apple apps.
Does Skype allow international calls to regular phone numbers?
Yes, using Skype credits, you can make international calls to landlines and mobile numbers.
Does Skype offer group video calls?
Yes, Skype supports group video calls with multiple participants.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
