Skype has been a long-standing communication app, whether for audio or video calls. It’s one of the most popular apps, with over 1.4 billion users. While Skype is known for audio and video calls, it also has an excellent feature for screen sharing/screen mirroring. It can come in handy if you’re trying to collaborate on a project with someone or need to provide customer support.
What is Skype?
Skype is a VoIP (Voice over IP) service that allows users to make voice and video calls over the internet. Skype can be used on various devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets.
Skype is free to download and use, and there are no monthly fees. Skype also offers a premium subscription service that includes additional features like group video calling and number porting.
What Can You Do With Skype?
Skype is a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) application that allows users to make voice and video calls and chat with other Skype users. You can also use Skype to call mobile phones and landlines, although you will need to purchase credits.
In addition to making calls, Skype also offers several features that can be useful for businesses, including screen sharing and the ability to send files.
How to Use Skype
Whether you’re new to Skype or an experienced user, there’s a lot you can do with the app. Here’s a quick guide on how to get started.
Sending Messages:
You can send instant messages to anyone on Skype, whether they’re online or not. Please type your message in the chat box and tap enter to send it.
To start a new conversation, click the + icon in the upper-left corner of the Skype window and select New chat. Then, enter the name, Skype name, email address, or phone number of the person you want to chat with and click Next.
You can also send SMS text messages from Skype if your contact doesn’t have Skype or is offline. Just click the SMS icon next to their name and type your message.
Adding Contacts:
You can add contacts on Skype in a few different ways. The easiest is to find them by their Skype name, email address, or phone number. You can also search for people in your address book or Facebook friends on Skype.
To Add a Contact:
| 1. | Click the Contacts tab at the top of the Skype window. |
| 2. | Click Add contact. |
| 3. | Enter the name, Skype name, email address, or phone number of the person you want to add, then click Search Skype. |
| 4. | Select the correct contact from the search results and click Add to Contacts. |
| 5. | Enter a personal message if you’d like and click Send invitation. Your contact will receive an invite to connect with you on Skype. |
Making Calls:
You can make calls on Skype with either video or just audio. To make a video call, you and your contact need to use Skype on a computer with a webcam or on a mobile device with a front-facing camera.
To Make a Call:
1. Click the Contacts tab at the top of the Skype window.
2. Find the contact you want to call and double-click their name.
3. Click the video camera icon to start a video call, or click the phone icon to do an audio call.
You can tap on a contact’s name to start a call if you’re on a mobile device.
Screen Sharing on Skype:
You can share your screen with anyone on Skype, whether you’re on a computer, mobile phone, or tablet. This is great for presentations or showing someone how to do something on their computer.
1. Click the + icon in the upper-left corner of the Skype window.
2. Select Share screens.
3. Select the window or application you want to share from the drop-down menu.
4. Click Share.
5. Your contact will now see what’s on your screen. Click the Stop sharing button at the top of the Skype window to stop sharing.
Pros and Cons of Skype
Regarding communication, Skype is one of the most popular options available. It’s a great way to keep in touch with friends and family and for business purposes. However, like any other software, there are both pros and cons to using Skype.
Let’s take a look at some of the key points:
PROS
-Skype is available on various platforms, including PC, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. This means you can use it no matter what device you have.
-It’s easy to set up and use. You don’t need special skills or knowledge to start with Skype.
-Skype offers both voice and video calling to choose the best option for your needs.
-You can share your screen with others while on a Skype call, which can be helpful for work or troubleshooting purposes.
CONS
-Because Skype is a closed system, you can only communicate with others who also have Skype installed. This can be limiting if your contacts are not all on Skype.
-The quality of Skype calls can be variable depending
Alternatives to Skype
There are several options available if you’re in the market for a Skype alternative. Here’s a quick rundown of a few of the most popular choices.
Viber: Viber offers free HD voice and video calls and instant messaging features. It’s available on most platforms, including iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac.
WhatsApp: WhatsApp is a cross-platform messaging app that allows users to send text, audio, and video messages. It’s also possible to make voice and video calls with WhatsApp.
Facebook Messenger: Facebook Messenger is a messaging app that comes pre-installed on most Android devices. It offers text messaging, voice and video calling, group chat, and more.
Google Hangouts: Google Hangouts is another option for those looking for a Skype alternative. It offers voice and video calling, as well as instant messaging features.
FAQs
Skype is a software application that allows users to make voice and video calls and chat over the Internet. Skype can be used on a variety of devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets.
To use Skype, you will need to create a Skype account. Once you have done so, you can add contacts and start making calls. You can also use Skype to send instant messages, share files, and make video calls.
Yes, Skype is free to download and use. However, there are some features that require a subscription, such as making calls to landlines and mobile phones.
To get started with Skype, visit the official website and create an account. Once you have done so, you can add contacts and start making calls. You can also use Skype to send instant messages, share files, and make video calls.
Conclusion
Overall, we found the Skype app to be highly user-friendly and helpful in various situations. Whether you need to share your screen with someone or send them a file, Skype makes it easy to do both with just a few taps. If you’re looking for an app that will simplify communication, we recommend giving Skype a try.