We told you that Google had launched its latest web-tool yesterday, adding a call function to Gmail and allowing calls (Free US and 'cheap international') to be placed from your PC/laptop effectively forming a Skype competitor overnight and though the Google experts are saying that it is Facebook and not Skype that Google are looking to topple, Skype should be worried.
According to a tweet from Google, over one million calls were placed in the first 24 hours of the feature going live which isn't bad the for the first of a new service. Obviously the number is expected to grow as more people hear about the new feature and as it is enabled in more countries.
Skype have fought back though, today they're offering a preview of a brand new version of their service which supports group video calling for up to 5 people.
According to Skype "With the latest version, you'll be able to bring the whole family together for a chat, for lunch, or even for a birthday. You'll be able to spend quality time with your best friends, planning a trip, or even hosting a book club. And you'll be able to meet with colleagues from across the world without leaving your desk."
Google has already tried to conquer several markets through Gmail. Its instant messaging Google Talk has done well, whilst Buzz, (Google's competitor to Twitter) was much less successful. Voice calls though seem to be working well so far and suit Gmail well. Watch out Skype.