CNN puts Skype in picture with Spitzer coverage

Other networks use broadband technology and, in some cases, Treo or cell phone video for live reports. Fox News Channel used live video from a cell phone for Spitzer's initial news conference when no one else was able to provide live video. Fox News Channel regularly uses VoIP technology, notably in its mobile election units. MSNBC's campaign embeds and correspondent Lee Cowan use ComVue video technology to file live reports.

A Fox TV affiliate, WBRC-TV in Birmingham, Ala., used Skype last year to file live reports from a tornado scene.

Skype executives couldn't be reached for comment Wednesday.

CNN U.S. president Jon Klein said the use of the Skype videophone is another advance that boosts the news product.

"It enables us to cover the news in more places and less expensive than ever before," Klein said. "That's a good thing. The end result is more information for the viewers."

Reuters/Hollywood Reporter