Skype has just released a new beta version of Skype, Skype 5.0 beta 1 build 5.0.0.105. It brings support for group video calling for up to 5 people. By using this feature, you’ll be able to bring the whole family together for a chat or lunch.
It means you’ll be able to meet with colleagues from around the world without leaving your computer. This five-way video calling feature is only available in beta version of Skype for Windows.
According to the official Skype blog:
“To make group video calls, the people you’re calling will also need to be running the new version, so make sure you let your friends and family know they can also download the beta by posting this on Facebook and Twitter. Once you’re all set up, it’s easy to start a group call – just use the Add button to invite people into the conversation, and click the Video Call button.”
You may also like to read:
- Download Skype for Android based phones
- Skype for Symbian OS based phones
- Download Skype for BlackBerry phones
It is expected that the final version of Skype 5.0 will be officially released later this year. To get the best experience of group calling then you’ll need a fast Internet connection and a new computer, but the developers are trying to make group video calling to work on a wide variety of connection types and hardware.
Skype has also said that group video calling will be a premium feature, but is currently available for free in beta version and the prices for the premium feature will be announced later. The other features like free voice and two-way video calling will remain absolutely free.
The 5-way group video calling feature for Skype for Mac is under development and will be released later this year.
Skype 5.0 Beta 1 – Features
- Up to 5-way group video call
- Redesigned calling experience
- Improved video snapshots gallery
- Improved browser plugins performance on some websites
- Reduced false positives on browser plugin phone number recognition
Skype 5.0 Beta 1 – Download
The Skype for Windows version 5.0 beta 1 is now available for download for free from the link given below. Keep in mind that the Skype 5.0 is currently in beta version so you may get some bugs and errors while using it.