Skype Extras are Extensions developed from Skype API’s that allow third-party developers to create their own offerings that make use of, or incorporate as a conversation tools. The Skype Extras backend, called Skype Publishing Studio, included an engine where developers could establish licensing terms (including allowing trials and periodic subscription renewals) and incorporate a transaction engine for payments via Skype Credits.
However Skype Extras as a marketing program have come to an end long back ago and no new software or upgrades will be certified for, or included in the Skype Extras offering. But its good news that prevailing Skype Extras will continue to be available via the Skype for Windows client.
If you are proud Windows User you should definitely check out skype addons.
Here is a short review on top 10 Skype extras powering Skype’s functionality in various cool ways. You can also check my recent article about some of the coolest Skype features ever that were hidden by default.
Skype Extras You Need to Get Yourself Familiar with for Improved Communication Experience
1. Pamela for Skype – Professional Version (Commercial/ Free basic version available)
With over 3 million downloads it has been a very popular Skype addon. Its features include Skype call/video/chat recording, call transfer, answering machine, video mail, auto chat reply, birthday reminders, email forwarding, contact personalization, Skype Publishing, etc. A must have addon 
!
2. Synqit (Free version)
Sync your Outlook, Google GMail, Yahoo!, Plaxo and mobile contacts with Skype contacts. Quick and handy tool for anyone.
3. WhiteBoardMeeting (Commercial/ Basic version free)
WhiteBoardMeeting allows users to create content by drawing vector graphics, inserting text and images, and sharing them it. Thus it makes possible for all users to see each other creating and editing content right away. Indeed creative extension 
4. Fring – (Freeware )
Take IM buddies with this plugin. Chat with many networks Fring supports on Skype, just like multi network supported Instant Messenger, borrowing from iMo messenger idea.
5. uSeeToo (Donationware)
With uSeeToo you can create content with text, images, and graphics to share with your contacts. It can be used as for purposes which vary from eLearning applications to product presentations, demos, drawing lines on whiteboards, sharing maps, remote collaboration, etc.
6. Skip2PBX (Commercial)
Skip2PBX integrates Skype with PBX system and VoIP services. It creates a communication infrastructure that allows you to take advantage of Skype without altering your existing telephone exchange and landlines setup.
7. RemoteX (Commercial/Trial available on request)
RemoteX allows you to share your desktop with another user through Skype. Just by clicking on Tools > Do More and selecting the RemoteX icon, you can share your desktop or view your contact’s desktop.
8. JiWire Hotspot Finder (Freeware)
JiWire Hotspot Finder finds a Wi-Fi hotspot anywhere in the world from a database of more than 200,000 hotspots in more than 135 countries. It lets you search on specific keywords like “cafe” or “hotel” and even by actual venue names like “McDonalds”. It provides reports on the local weather and traffic. You can also get directions by clicking on a location on the map.
9. PrettyMay Recorder and Sharer (Commercial/ Free basic version available)
PrettyMay Call Recorder and Sharer for Skype allows you to record any calls/Skypecasts/conferences in .mp3 or .wav format, save Skype voicemails as .mp3 or .wav files, and share call recordings/voicemails/Sound files.
10. Pando (Commercial/Basic version Free)
It adds advanced file transfer functionality to Skype. It lets you transfer files and folders to Skype contacts, and generate URLs for files/folders you want to share over the Web.
11. Blubell (Commercial/Free To Try)
Blubell allows you to control Skype from your Bluetooth headset. You can make Skype calls through voice dialing, accept Skype calls by pressing the headset button, and use Skype as normal but without having to sit in front of the computer.
12. Townkings (Freeware)
Feel the real life! It’s a Local and map based community where you can localize yourself and communicate with your local surrounding, contact and invite your friends via skype, organize meetings and events. See townkings as your personal and private assistant! Features all-in-one communication, meeting widget, free dating, locations on map, ebay trading.
BONUS 
13. Anothr (Freeware)
It is one and only 1st Skype-based RSS Reader. A robot which can provides just-in-time alerts for your favorite feeds. It’s very simple to use by adding “Anothr.com” as a new skype contact, then drag and drop URL or chat with the contact to subscribe your favorite feeds
When you see something that is good, it worth talking about, and that’s the motive behind these amazing Skype extra tools. I know there are many more out there, but these ones stands out.
The world of video conferencing keeps expanding, new tools keeps coming into the marketplace everyday, and you cannot do anything about stopping it than to embrace them. If you want to see other amazing tools that we couldn’t feature here, you can as well head over to KumoSpace post here that highlights other amazing video conferencing solutions.
If you want us to include your favorite skype extra addon on this list, mention them below.
