Scan & Fix 50 registry issues FREECNET Editors' review
After Skype's previous offering took it a step back on the feature set, it's a relief to see version 4.1 reinstate some of those missing baubles--like accessibility provisions, birthday alerts, and the ability to send a contact to other Skype users. Version 4.0 saw Skype reworked, stripped down to its core competency (and most formidable challenge) of delivering high-quality audio and video calls over the Internet. The improved sound and video quality, were notable in our tests, the result of Skype 4.0's sound engine and bandwidth manager.
Public chats have also been temporarily omitted in version 4.x, IM still isn't terribly interactive, and the Skypecast partyline throwback has gotten the kibosh. Those chafing against the larger block of interface that consolidates the classic two-pane look into a single window can also split them in two.
But the real news in this minor version is a major feature: screen sharing. Screen sharing initiates a video call, using that technology to broadcast a recording of your screen--either a portion or the full screen--to one other viewer. Screen sharing has some limitations: you can't simultaneously see a video of your buddy and their desktop, and since only one viewer at a time can peep your screen, you can't use it as a free replacement for collaborative Web conferencing. It doesn't help that the picture quality is still choppy and fuzzy, in both partial-screen and full-screen view modes. Make no mistake, though: it's a great feature that we're happy to see added, but we'll be even happier to watch it improve.
Skype's central theme, though, is cheap calling from the desktop. Anyone who's interested in talking for free from Skype-to-Skype, or cheaper by purchasing Skype credit to call land lines and mobile phones, should give Skype a try. For international callers, this program is a no-brainer solution for slashing those long-distance bills.
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.
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All versions:
3.9 starsout of 1,880 votes
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Current version:
4.1 starsout of 57 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"Better speed"
Version: Skype 4.1.0.166
Pros
If I use my UMTS-Modem, I need a fast response. It's for using Voice-functionality a better quality.
Cons
One Tool for Communication.
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"Great tool for keeping in contact."
Version: Skype 4.1.0.166
Pros
The user friendly layout.
Cons
Time delay seems to be the biggest drawback.
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"Great to keep in touch with friends and family."
Version: Skype 4.1.0.166
Pros
Easy to use.
Cons
Can't use the screen feature to see all the family members at once.
Summary
I can keep in touch with my family, by voice, near and far away.
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"Wonderful produt"
Version: Skype 4.1.0.166
Pros
Everything
Cons
I don't have any..
Summary
It's really being a nice and good experience.... Nice features and functionality..
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"Skype has grown up."
Version: Skype 4.1.0.166
Pros
Skype has grown up and doesn't default to making calls anymore. It has a unified user interface as well.
Cons
Skype hasn't grown to work well in the UAC environment of Windows when it comes to the SkypeExtras. The browser plugin for Internet Explorer can be quite slow and cause crashes as well.
Summary
Excluding any add-on functionality, Skype is one of the best online calling and instant messaging clients.
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"Perfect for VoiP"
Version: Skype 4.1.0.166
Pros
The clarity of calls, either computer to computer or to land lines or cell phones, is the best of any program I've tried.
Cons
I know on none...
Summary
I only use Skype for voice IMs and phone calls, and occasionally video calls, so my comments and ratings only take this into account. There are probably many other features that it is supposed to do and doesn't, but again, I don't use or need all of it's extra. I definitely believe in Skype..
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"great replacement for phone line"
Version: Skype 4.1.0.166
Pros
cheap calls long distance
Cons
fade outs, echoes, hard to hold pc on shouldewr when walkin around ... LOL
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"Let me down"
Version: Skype 4.1.0.166
Pros
good for free calls
Cons
new version does not recognize my HP Pro webcam,the last one did :-(
Summary
good for calls,maybe needs some capatability upgrades.
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"Good but could be better"
Version: Skype 4.1.0.166
Pros
good talking for long distance
Cons
could be better
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"makes communication easy, no matter the distance."
Version: Skype 4.1.0.166
Pros
gives automatic offer of a list of relevant names from my address book whom are connectet to skype; makes possible various ways of communication (talk, video-talk, write, send files & pictures).
Cons
help and directions of use are clumsy and not friendly, many times I give up; difficult to explain how to use to people who do not use it.
Summary
an excellent idea for people who are handy at the computer and its gadgets, and seek easy commucation.
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