Netopia, Inc., a market leader in broadband gateways and service-delivery software, introduced the latest version of its award-winning Timbuktu Pro software for both Macintosh and Windows, which enables users to remotely view and interact with individual desktops through any Internet connection. Released today, Timbuktu Pro 8.6 integrates with Skype, the peer-to-peer Internet telephony application. Additionally, the new Macintosh version of Timbuktu Pro can now be run on the new Intel-based Macintosh computers.

Timbuktu Pro 8.6 for Windows and Macintosh provides seamless integration with Internet telephony provider Skype, allowing users to connect and remotely control machines while conversing and collaborating with other Timbuktu Pro users, all through a Skype tunnel. Timbuktu Pro leverages Skype's API to automatically navigate through routers, firewalls, and NAT devices. Users can now search for, speak to, and collaborate with other Timbuktu Pro users through their Skype contacts. They can even launch a Skype call from within Timbuktu Pro. The integration of Timbuktu Pro and Skype combines the best desktop remote control software with the premiere Internet telephony application, providing users with a robust and versatile collaboration experience.

Timbuktu Pro 8.6 for Macintosh is also one of the first universal applications to run on both Intel-based and PowerPC Macintosh computers. By incorporating Apple's universal binary strategy, Netopia can ensure Timbuktu Pro performs at its peak on either Mac architecture. Now all Mac users, including those with the new Intel-based Macs, can enjoy the benefits of Timbuktu Pro's remote collaboration features in a single software platform.

"Timbuktu Pro has been on the forefront of enabling remote collaboration since it was first introduced more than 15 years ago. By continually incorporating the ever-changing technological landscape into our product offerings, we expand Timbuktu Pro's capabilities while also making it more user friendly," said Ray Smets, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Netopia. "Our cooperation with pioneering technologies like the leading VoIP application from Skype makes remote collaboration an easy option for users. Whether on the road, in the office, or with friends and family, users can place Skype calls and now show and share their desktops over Skype connections."

Availability

Timbuktu Pro 8.6 for Windows and Macintosh is now available from Netopia's online software store at www.netopia.com or through local resellers. Skype software is available at www.skype.com.