Finding out how to see and navigate through the Skype cloud to be able to find a Skype client, how to publish a client's profile into the Skype cloud so other Skype clients can find that one client, and how to negotiate starting the call session. These are the things needed to be figured out to be able to build a Skype-compatible client and are the things that a Chinese firm had to unearth to be able to come up with this application that allows Skype-compatible softphone calls.

The said Chinese firm has been successful in reverse-engineering Skype's communications protocol, leading them to build a Skype-compatible softphone. The firm aims to release their app to the public by the end of the month but they have not given word yet if they'll just offer consulting services or if they'll also publish the protocols and offer Skype-compatible consumer software and Skype-compatible engineering products to other developers.

Publishing this Skype calling protocol will not only benefit Skype users but will also open up opportunities for developers. Skype connectivity can now be built into a third party's own software without the need for an official Skype client. Also, it is possible to create Skype-compatible server software plus Skype to PBX integration allowing users to preserve their Skype identity, authentication, encryption, and presence while routed through an Asterisk server.

While this opening up of the Skype protocol is good for third party developers, it may kill Skype. They do have options on how to prevent an inevitable death with this application. Skype Journal's Phil Wolff suggests the following:

Open. They're already on the path to opening up more of their apps at the API level. Skype could embrace this at the protocol level too. This is the hardest thing to do, but may pay off in the long run. Exposing these protocols is the only way for the Skype network to become an industry standard. And it would put Skype in a position of leadership the way Microsoft is for dot net, Sun is for Java, and Adobe is for Flash.

Switch. Skype could change the protocols, breaking the new software. This is a costly and temporary solution; tricky but doable. Replacing Skype clients for updates is hard enough; getting everyone to migrate could kill the brand love. It won't be long until the Chinese engineers figure out how to get in again.

Quash. Skype might try to blow out the startup's fire. eBay has a powerful combination of PR, lobbyists, litigators, and business allies. Even in China. Skype could try to accuse the startup of piracy. My guess is Skype will tread litely. These tactics rarely work in China and often tarnish the reputation of the outsider applying the pressure.

Ignore. Skype has enough to do. Wait and see.

Invest. Buy the team, put them to work.