Big things have been happening for Skype lately and the world’s best known VOiP app is only getting bigger and better, even more so since being acquired by Microsoft.  An updated version of Skype just appeared on the Android Market sporting a crucial improvement: it now supports two-way video calling on a widened range of current Android handsets.

At launch, only a handful of Android devices were supported, a common problem for video-related apps heading to the Android Market.  But 17 more Android handsets are supported now: Google’s own Nexus S, HTC’s Desire S, and the Xperia Neo and Pro from Sony Ericsson, all handsets that shipped with Android 2.3 installed.  We suspect the rest of the Android world won’t be far behind — Thunderbolt users will surely be wondering why they’re not included in this first batch.

Also included in Skype v2.0.0.45 is a UI overhaul and support for SMS messaging, neither of which suffers from any handset restrictions. Hit up the Android Market on your phone (the web Market still lists version 1) to get at the latest software.

If you have a recent phone from HTC, Samsung or Sony Ericsson (excluding the Arc), then you’re probably in luck. Oh, and LG Revolution (Verizon) and Acer A5 owners can get their vogue on too.  Running Gingerbread is a must, though, because Froyo will only let you use your device’s rear camera, which is obviously quite difficult to pose for.

In addition to video calling, the update brings a redesigned UI to the app, with a new main menu where you can navigate through contacts, access your Skype profile, and use the dial pad to make calls, see the balance of your Skype Credit and make those video calls. A mood message box was also added at the top of the Skype app menu to share how you are feeling, what you’ve seen or what you’re up to.

The iOS version of Skype already works just fine on the iPad in pixel-doubled mode. Or, I should say it works just like the iPhone version, with the same battery-draining runaway background processes enjoyed by those using it on the iPhone.  Skype for iPad takes advantage of the bigger screen, letting you chat whilst making a video calls and showing contact info in popovers. It also duplicates the functionality of the iPhone version, letting you continue a call while you use other apps.

Growing data usage means more money-making opportunities for carriers, as 51 percent of operators no longer offer unlimited data plans. Sprint is the only remaining major vendor to still offer unlimited, and with the steady rise in consumption, we shouldn’t be surprised if a change isn’t in the near future. While this can be good for those who offer VoIP enabler technology, a clear focus on strategies and need will be required.

But other carriers are looking to leverage VoIP. As MetroPCS eyes a VoIP roll out in early 2012, it is set to become the next carrier to offer VoIP service to its customers.  According to CEO Roger Linquist, MetroPCS will start to offer VoIP service via its LTE network in early 2012.  MetroPCS is now migrating its SMS and MMS services over to an IMS-driven VoLTE service and will move the current circuit-switched voice service to the same service as the SMS and MMS messaging.