Video VoIP looks set to see huge improvements after the development of new software which could rid web-cam images of their grainy look.

Despite broadband speed and the uptake of VoIP seeing huge increases, keeping in touch with family and friends using video telephony is often frustrating due to the choppy, pixilated images and lack of fluidity.

But the new software from Skype will allow people to chat through over the internet using web cams but with an image almost as clear as that of a TV screen.

Don Albert, vice president and general manager of Skype North America, said that the firm hoped the upgrades would "make people feel like they're together during a conversation" wherever they happen to be in the world.

The firm will work alongside web-cam manufacturer Logitech which is working on creating high quality lenses for its cameras to allow for a sharper image.

"Our goal is to make lifelike video calls," said Gina Clark, vice president and general manager of Logitech's Internet Communications business unit.

The new software will not be available to Mac users when it is first marketed although Ms Clark claimed her firm was interested on how its cameras would perform on these computers.