SkypeEthics
Why is Skype not part of Ubuntu?
Skype is not part of the Ubuntu distribution because it does not conform to the requirements of the Ubuntu Charter. This is primarily because source code is not available. A consequence of this is that it is impossible to understand the Skype communication protocol, which prevents competition and fractures the VoIP market, making it harder for people to communicate.
It is possible to install it. Earlier versions of Skype (1.2 and older) might have issues with basic sound cards that do not support hardware mixing due to using the Open Sound System (OSS).
VOIP softphones that ARE 'free libre open' and that ARE part of Ubuntu
Open alternative SoftPhone's that are 'free libre open' and do use 'open' protocols include ["Ekiga"], ["Twinkle"] and [http://www.wengophone.com Wengophone].
Ethics of Skype
Free Software
Ubuntu supports free software, which anyone can use, modify and improve. Skype software and the Skype protocol are both entirely secret. Users may choose to avoid Skype because:
- They will be forced to use Skype software as no alternatives will be available
- Once they develop a Skype network of contacts, it will be harder to move to a free network.
- Skype could begin charging for their service
Skype already have mooted limiting the capabilities of Skype for non-Intel users (details [http://blogs.zdnet.com/ip-telephony/?p=947 here])
Free speech
Users may choose to avoid Skype because they have been engaged in censorship in China. Chinese users and users in certain countries may fear that along with censorship, they will suffer disclosure of their private conversations to other people, authorities or governments. Please see the following links for more information:
[http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/04/20/skype_china_censorship_row/ The Register: Skype censoring in China]
[http://news.ft.com/cms/s/875630d4-cef9-11da-925d-0000779e2340.html FT: Skype says texts are censored by China]
Note that open VoIP protocols such as SIP [http://www.ietf.org/rfc/rfc3265.txt may offer confidentiality] and [http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20060315-6388.html encryption] it does not have to. Similarly VoIP providers may be [http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20050808-5182.html mandated to provide wiretap access] anyway.