Scan & Fix 100 registry errors freeCNET Editors' review
Skype is a great starting point for those interested in Voice Over IP (VoIP) technology offering an interface that's much like a chat program. To make calls, you'll need to create a contact list of friends and family who also have Skype. To make calls to regular handset or mobile phones, you'll have to sign up with the Skype service. Possibly the best feature of Skype is that you'll be able to make free computer-to-computer calls anywhere around the world as long as both parties have Skype installed. This includes both audio and video calls.
In the past we liked the intuitive chat-like interface of older versions of Skype and were surprised at the excellent sound quality, even using regular desktop speakers. But the latest version has added a number of interface problems that make the program much harder to use on the Mac. This update adds some enhancements and audio improvements, but you may want to stick with the old version until Skype can iron out the bugs.
Publisher's Description
From Skype:
Skype is a little piece of software that lets you make free calls to anyone else on Skype, anywhere in the world. And even though the calls are free, they are really excellent quality. If you and your friends, family or business contacts are using webcams, you can also make free video calls. You can even call landlines and mobile phones at really cheap per minute rates.
What's new in this version:
- Facebook connect
- Facebook chat
- Skype Home
- Improved video quality
- Minor bug fixes
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All versions:
3.1 starsout of 301 votes
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Current version:
2.2 starsout of 6 votes
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My rating:
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Results 1-6 of 6
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"Older User First Time around"
Version: Skype 5.4.0.1217
Pros
The Installation was easy
Cons
But navigation for a senior working alone was frustrating when trying to set it up for Facebook.
Summary
With patience I was able to do it but all the information needed to use it as limited my use
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"Barfaroonie!"
Version: Skype 5.4.0.1217
Pros
Surely you jest!
Cons
Every time Microsoft gets their grubby paws on something they screw it up.
Summary
I'm glad I read all the negative reviews before I updated my previous version of Skype which I like just fine, thankyouverymuch.
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"Not a bad piece of software for the money!"
Version: Skype 5.4.0.1217
Pros
$60 per year for a world accessible "phone" beats $15+per month for a "local plan".
Lack of third party advertising!!!
Reasonable international rates.
Good call quality for most calls.Cons
Skimpy Mac support.
Call takes over Skype fgd window.
No easy way to file new contacts into groups.
Caller ID: sometimes # for cell, city name for landlines. Need option: name or alias.
When Skype offline, AT&T callers get "number not in service".Summary
Waiting for improvements, and more attention to Mac customer needs.
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"Version 2.8.0.866!!!"
Version: Skype 5.4.0.1217
Pros
Skype site admitted the fail and reloaded the link to the last proper version
Cons
Microsoft bought Skype... what can you expect by that beginners if not another failure?
Summary
We need an alternative and FaceTime is not, Yahoo either, GTalk seeps iWorks '11: an unending promise...
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"ads included for non-paying users?"
Version: Skype 5.4.0.1217
Pros
judge for yourself
Cons
http://9to5mac.com/2011/09/15/two-of-your-favorites-come-together-skype-and-facebook/
Summary
the Mac version trails behind the Windows version... and as a bonus, non-paying Skype users will now see ads
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"Too Demanding of Screen Space; Sticking with v2.8.0.863"
Version: Skype 5.4.0.1217
Pros
None of the v5-series needed and, therefore, not reviewed
Cons
One--a biggie for me: While the Contacts Monitor window is all that I routinely need displayed, it's programmed always to remain on top--with no preference setting to permit it to go into the background. Developer shouldn't dictate screen-space use.
Summary
Continued insistance so far in the v5-series to dictating the minimum screen-space use taken by Skype isn't, in my view, something a developer should do; that should be my choice. (Just making the Contacts Monitor window able to be background would be sufficient for me regarding screen-space use.) I have no need for the new features in the v5-series, so--once again after checking out this latest version--I'm sticking with v2.8.0.863 which does all that I need without new eye candy and doesn't require its Contacts window to always take-up valuable screen space.
Under "Pros", I meant none of the new v5-series capabilities needed and, therefore, not reviewed.
Updated on Sep 15, 2011
Results 1-6 of 6
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