Skype for Windows
Group messaging, video calls, and more
Skype has always been a popular choice for connecting with friends and family on the internet. Over the years, the release of new features has turned the tool into a full-fledged communication platform for business purposes. While using this service, you can substantially cut down costs on standard phone messaging and calls.
It’s worth mentioning that Skype was acquired by Microsoft in 2011. Since then, the program has been promoted as a feature-packed communication tool. In order to start using Skype, you need to sign up and create a Microsoft account. If you already have one, you can use the same to sign in to Skype.
Skype is heavier than competing tools like Discord and Zoom. Therefore, you might experience occasional lags. The slow loading time can be a deterrent for some people. However, once you start using Skype, the simple interface will make it easier to get a hang of the features.
How to start using Skype?
In order to create an account, you need to enter a few details, including an email address or mobile phone number. Once you’ve entered this information, just choose a strong password to create a new Microsoft account. Before the process is complete, you also need to provide your first and last name.
The last step is to verify the email address or phone number you shared. While the process may seem tedious, it eliminates the chances of someone else using your Skype account. Once again, you can continue to use an existing Microsoft account.
How to set up the account?
Once you’ve logged in to the video conferencing app, you can set up a new profile picture on the home screen. This is the image to be displayed during a chat, voice call, or video conference. It helps other people identify you easily.
Skype also provides you with a ‘Status’ section, which can be used to let other people know about your thoughts, profession, or basically anything you want. Most people use this feature to let others know when they’re available or busy.
What are the features?
As mentioned earlier, Skype is a full-fledged communication tool. The latest version of the program lets you send messages, share content, and initiate video or voice calls with individuals or groups. Before you start using Skype, you only need to create an account and add contacts. It’s worth mentioning that contacts can be imported from various sources, including Microsoft Outlook.
The program displays all the features in large-sized icons. When you call someone via Skype, you can hear the iconic ringtone. Before you initiate instant messaging or video conferences, check out the status to get an idea about the other person’s availability. There’s a dot right beside the profile picture to denote the status even more conveniently. While red means busy, green stands for available.
Skype allows you to send files up to 300 MB. Compared to other instant messaging and video conferencing apps, this is an excellent addition to the list of features. You can easily send images, videos, documents, mods, or game saves.
Skype can also be used in place of a standard mobile phone or landline. With the pay-as-you-go subscription model, you can recharge the account and use credits to call phones. All you need is a stable internet connection.
The program is prominently used for group messaging. It’s an excellent tool for collaboration among colleagues. However, the slow loading time can be a hassle, and therefore, people have started preferring various other platforms over Skype.
What are the alternatives?
Although Skype is a popular communication platform, you can find a lot of options online. Depending on your usage, needs, and requirements, you can choose from simpler, more feature-loaded, and visually appealing programs.
For instance, Discord is a good choice for gamers. The application comes with in-app streaming, support for multiple servers, and a dedicated game store. It allows you to use an existing server or create a new one. In the last couple of years, Discord has built a solid community, where you can interact with like-minded people.
If you’re looking to chat with friends during games or share files up to 8 MB, Discord will be a good choice. Additionally, the tool supports voice and video calls, making it an ideal choice for friendly conversations and chats.
Another program from Microsoft has been quite popular in the business community. Microsoft Teams is a video conferencing app targeting large enterprises. It’s a good choice for conducting virtual meetings, and comes with a range of features to chat, share, and collaborate.
In recent times, Zoom has become the most popular instant messaging and video conferencing app for Windows 10. The simple interface doesn’t require any technical skills, and allows large groups of people to collaborate online. However, privacy issues can be a hassle for some people.
Until a few years back, Skype was the leading communication platform in the world. With tough competition from next-gen apps, it has taken a backseat. But if you prefer the familiar interface and the easy-to-use features, Skype will not disappoint.
A decent choice for Windows computers
With almost everything happening on the internet, you need a powerful communication tool to chat, share files, and voice or video call friends and colleagues. Skype serves the purpose, and provides you with all the necessities. While you can explore other programs, this one continues to be the preferred choice of most Windows users. It’s also available for Mac, iPhone, and Android devices.
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