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CNET Editors' review
Just in time for Windows 8, Skype has now just released a major version update that adds improved integration with Microsoft and Facebook accounts, better messaging, and some minor changes to the user interface.
For those of you who've been living under a rock, Skype is one of the the most popular video chat and voice calling clients amongst our users as well as the world. It offers free calls to other Skype users over the Internet as well as very affordable rates for calling landlines and phones.
Version 6 brings a much simpler registration process, particularly with more integration with Facebook and Microsoft accounts. Now you can sign in with either Facebook or Hotmail and automatically use that as a Skype log-in. The previous version briefly incorporated Facebook features; its synchronization is much more apparent in the latest release. User contacts seemed to sync with profile pictures from more sources and the overall interface also looked cleaner. It wasn't a drastic overhaul, but subtle things like removing mini-banner ads from the bottom of the contact list and thin outlines over the tabs did contribute to a more modern look.
Call quality is still variable, depending on your connection and setup, but our experiences have been very positive. This version seemed more focused on casting a wider net and reducing the barrier to entry to an already excellent service and easing registration woes as new platforms emerge. If you've yet to try out Skype and you're looking for a worthy VoIP client, look no further and click on the green download button.
Skype 4.0 for Windows:Publisher's Description
From Skype:
Skype is software that enables you to make free calls anywhere in the world. Skype uses P2P (peer-to-peer) technology to connect you with other users. It offers several features, including SkypeOut calling from Skype to regular and mobile phones worldwide, conference calling, and secure file transferring. You can also now share your screen with other users. Skype calls focus on video and audio quality, and secure the calls with end-to-end encryption.
What's new in this version: Version 6.5.0.158 has improved the stability of video messaging.
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All versions:
3.9 starsout of 1,888 votes
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Current version:
3.0 starsout of 4 votes
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My rating:
Write review
Results 1-4 of 4
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"Not all its cracked up to be"
Version: Skype 6.5.0.158
Pros
Great quality.
Talk to friends across the country.Cons
Can't fix/delete mood.
Not able to call more than one friend at a time unless you pay for it.
Can only save conversations for up to 3 months.Summary
Skype is a wonderful way to talk to friends and family. Overall I really like Skype I just think they need to do some updating so people can fix/delete their mood in case they made a mistake.
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"did you bother to read the agreement?"
Version: Skype 6.5.0.158
Pros
didn't agree to install what I consider malware
Cons
didn't agree to install what I consider malware
Summary
In the top of the user agreement you agree to have your browsing activity monitored to send you spam (targeted advertising) and to have your personal information collected to be sold to third parties. I clicked "decline" and it still proceded to install tracking software. They even tell you that the uninstall process while successful is incomplete and offers to sell you a utility to completely remove it.
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"Skype is the best"
Version: Skype 6.5.0.158
Pros
been using skype for 3 years to talk to my family and it really works well!
Cons
there are bugs sometimes lke sometimes the latest message appears on the top of the conversation and everywhere.
Summary
works really great in video calling!
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"every time i update skype i have problem spinning home"
Version: Skype 6.5.0.158
Pros
the more they update it the worse it gets
Cons
i wish microsoft didn't buy it. there should be laws against this.
Summary
Microsoft will lose their investment if they don't leave it alone
Results 1-4 of 4
