Skype has just announced a new display ad format known as Conversation Ads that will appear within the calling window of one-to-one Skype-to-Skype audio calls.
The new ads will only be displayed to those using the service for free, that is those who do not have Skype Credit or subscriptions, and is currently limited to Skype for Windows users.
Skype’s excitement over the launch of this new format is quite obvious, although we’re not as convinced as they are that the new medium rectangle ads will “spark additional topics of conversation that are relevant to Skype users and highlight unique and local brand experiences”.
The ads will be sold in 55 countries where Skype is available and can be targeted by location, gender and age. Users can opt-out of gender and age targeting in their Skype options but not location.
Don’t expect too much of a revolt from Skype users though. The ads are silent, non-expanding and video is not permitted. Ads tailored in realtime to the topic of conversation are a few years off yet!