Skype Features: Skype, once synonymous with internet-based communication, remains one of the leading platforms for video calling, messaging, and file sharing. Over the years, it has evolved and introduced several new features to cater to the needs of both individual and business users.

If you’re looking to get the most out of Skype, it’s essential to be aware of its broad range of functionalities. In this article, we’ll explore the key features that every user should know about to maximize their Skype experience.

Top Skype Features Every User Should Know About

1. Video and Audio Calls

Skype is best known for its high-quality video and audio calls, and it remains one of the most reliable platforms for making both individual and group calls. Skype allows users to make video calls to others, whether they are on a computer, smartphone, or tablet. The quality of calls largely depends on the internet connection, but Skype automatically adjusts the video resolution for smoother calls.

One-on-One Video Calls: Skype allows you to connect face-to-face with anyone globally in a private, high-definition video call.

Group Video Calls: Skype supports group video calls with up to 100 participants. Whether you’re having a family reunion or a work meeting, Skype makes it easy to communicate with multiple people simultaneously.

Moreover, Skype has a background blur feature for video calls that helps eliminate distractions during professional or personal conversations.

2. Voice Messaging

Not always able to take a call? Skype lets you send voice messages. This feature is particularly helpful when you want to convey a message without typing it out, or if you’re busy and unable to engage in a full conversation.

To send a voice message, simply hold down the microphone icon in the chat window and start speaking. Your message will be sent once you release the icon. Recipients can listen to your message at their convenience.

3. Text Messaging

Skype’s messaging platform allows you to send and receive instant text messages in real time. Texting on Skype is particularly useful when you need to quickly communicate, share links, or send media files. Key features include:

Emojis & Stickers: Add fun to your conversations with a wide range of emojis and stickers. These can help express emotions or make your messages more engaging.

Message Reactions: Skype users can react to messages using emojis. This is similar to other messaging platforms, allowing you to react with a thumbs-up, heart, or other reactions without replying with text.

Mentions: When chatting in a group, you can use the @ symbol followed by the person’s name to mention them directly. This ensures they are notified, even if the conversation is busy.

Rich Text: Skype supports bold, italic, and underline formatting to make your text stand out.

4. Screen Sharing

Whether you’re troubleshooting with a friend or making a business presentation, Skype’s screen-sharing feature is indispensable. With this tool, you can share your entire screen or a specific application window. This is particularly useful for remote work, as you can collaborate or present in real time.

To start screen sharing, simply click the screen-sharing icon during a call and select what you’d like to share. It’s compatible with both video and audio calls, allowing you to explain and walk others through documents, websites, or apps.

5. Skype Translator

Skype offers a real-time translation feature that breaks down language barriers. The Skype Translator automatically translates spoken words during voice and video calls in real-time, making it an essential tool for international conversations.

Currently, Skype supports translation for both voice calls (with over 10 languages) and text-based chats (with even more languages). This feature makes it easier for people from different linguistic backgrounds to communicate without needing a third-party translator.

6. File Sharing

Sending files to contacts or groups on Skype is simple. Whether you need to send a document, an image, or a video, Skype supports file-sharing with the following features:

Drag-and-Drop: Easily drag files from your computer and drop them into a chat.

Large Files: Skype allows sending large files, making it useful for business collaboration. The maximum file size allowed is 300MB per file.

Access to Previous Files: Skype stores shared files for up to 30 days, so you can easily retrieve them later.

File Preview: You can preview images, videos, and documents before downloading.

7. Call Forwarding and Voicemail

Skype has several tools that enhance the way you manage calls, especially when you are unavailable or away from the app. With call forwarding, you can set Skype to forward calls to another number or voicemail, allowing you to never miss an important call. Skype’s voicemail feature enables callers to leave messages if you don’t pick up, which is especially useful for users with a Skype number.

You can manage your voicemail settings to customize greetings, voicemail alerts, and more. For example, voicemail greetings can be personalized based on the time of day, ensuring you sound professional for business-related calls.

8. Skype for Business (Microsoft Teams)

Skype has seamlessly integrated with Microsoft Teams, especially for professional use. Skype for Business, now largely integrated into Teams, offers enhanced tools tailored to business communication, such as:

Scheduled Meetings: Schedule and invite participants to online meetings with ease.

Presence Indicators: See if someone is available, busy, or in a meeting.

Call Management Features: Features like call transferring and voicemail are useful for business environments.

Meeting Recording: Record meetings for later playback or sharing with absent colleagues.

Though Skype for Business is gradually being replaced by Microsoft Teams, it’s still an essential feature for organizations using Skype.

9. Skype Credit and Subscriptions

Skype offers a pay-as-you-go system for users who want to make calls to mobile phones and landlines at affordable rates. This is done through Skype Credit, which lets you call numbers outside the Skype network.

Alternatively, Skype offers several subscription plans, including:

Skype to Phone Subscription: Call landline and mobile numbers at a fixed monthly rate.

Skype Number: Get a local phone number in a country of your choice, which people can use to call you directly.

Unlimited Calling Plans: For heavy users, there are subscription plans that provide unlimited calls to specific countries or regions.

Skype Credit and subscription plans offer flexibility depending on your usage needs, whether you’re calling internationally or locally.

10. Mobile App Integration

Skype isn’t just available on your computer; its mobile app ensures that you can stay connected on the go. The mobile app is available for both iOS and Android, and it syncs seamlessly with your desktop version.

You can make calls, send messages, share files, and access all Skype features from your mobile device. Additionally, Skype integrates with your phone’s contacts, allowing you to call people who are not on Skype directly.

11. Chat Bots and Integration with Other Services

Skype offers a variety of chatbots that can help automate tasks, provide news updates, or integrate with external services. For instance, you can add bots that provide daily news updates, weather forecasts, or trivia.

Additionally, Skype integrates with several third-party services such as Microsoft Office, Outlook, and Dropbox, which makes file sharing, calendar management, and document collaboration more streamlined.

FAQs

Can I use Skype for group video calls?

Yes, Skype supports group video calls with up to 100 participants. This is available on both desktop and mobile versions of the app.

What is Skype Translator, and how does it work?

Skype Translator allows you to translate spoken and written words in real time during a conversation. It currently supports a variety of languages and helps break language barriers between users.

How can I share files on Skype?

Simply drag and drop files into the chat window, or use the attachment icon to select the file you want to send. Skype supports sending documents, images, videos, and more.

Is Skype free?

Skype is free to use for voice and video calls, instant messaging, and file sharing with other Skype users. However, if you want to make calls to landline or mobile phones, you’ll need to purchase Skype Credit or subscribe to a calling plan.

Can I record a Skype call?

Yes, Skype allows you to record calls. You can record both video and voice calls, and the recording is saved within the chat, accessible for playback.

What’s the difference between Skype and Skype for Business?

Skype for Business (now largely integrated with Microsoft Teams) is a professional version of Skype with advanced features for organizations, including scheduling meetings, managing team communications, and other business tools. Skype for personal use focuses on voice and video calling, messaging, and file sharing.