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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 6.3.0.105 has fixed bugs where start screen sharing pop-up was not accessible, call toolbar texts did not fit onto screen on some languages, and profile window in compact view did not downscale.
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All versions:
3.9 starsout of 1,871 votes
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Current version:
2.0 starsout of 3 votes
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My rating:
Write review
Results 1-3 of 3
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"It doesn't replace MSN at all"
Version: Skype 6.3.0.105
Pros
- Call quality?
- Vid call quality?Cons
- skype IM screen is huge and takes up half the window
- can't alter text size, font, color (no customization for IM users)
- horrible replacement for MSN messengerSummary
Skype has been a horrible experience so far, it doesn't replace MSN at all. While MSN provides comfortable chatting with friends with more free customizations, Skype is only convenient for video call. It doesn't take into consideration user's other needs as a messenger. I want to make my chatting window smaller so i can chat and watch vid at the same time, Skype screen smallest size still takes over half the screen. I want to customize my text into different color depending on who i chat with, I can't. I want to change background of my chat room I can't. Skype is so freaking boring, the only reasonable feature it provides is video call. It doesn't cater to none call related users who simply want a light IM messenger free of charge.
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"Some improvements compared to the previous version"
Version: Skype 6.3.0.105
Pros
Cleaner layout
Cons
Still some confusion when navigating the menu
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"Skype 6.3 does not find/recognize webcam"
Version: Skype 6.3.0.105
Pros
No much good to say, if it prevents you from making video calls
Cons
The Skype Help websites are full of Skype users complaining about not being ale to make video calls since the new (6.3) upgrade will not recognize their video webcam
Summary
Reverted back to Ver 5.10 to be able to make subscription paid video calls.
Results 1-3 of 3
