Skype beta released for Windows and Mac

Following Microsoft’s acquisition of the company, new Skype beta versions for both Windows and Mac have been released, showing some new features and greater integration based on user feedback.

Skype say that v5.5 for Windows includes Facebook integration, with the ability to create a new contacts tab containing just Facebook contacts, view the Facebook News Feed within Skype and even ‘Like’ and comment on a friend’s Facebook status without having to log into Facebook elsewhere.

Users can also Instant Message their Facebook friends, in the same way that they can on the main site.

All of these features will still be available in the free version of Skype, and group calling with up to 10 friends and live customer support will be available with Skype Premium.

The call toolbar has also been given a makeover, with simpler buttons and an easier to use interface. This includes the ability to minimise Skype and be left with the window showing the video of the person you are talking with.

This allows for multi-tasking while retaining the ability to control the call with the usual commands; pause, stop, mute, share screen etc.

As well as releasing Skype 5.2 for Mac, featuring many of the same new features and also remaining free, Skype have also introduced free video calling to Android, as previously reported.

Following the 8.5 billion dollar purchase of Skype, Microsoft have made good on their press release at the time of purchase, and they do seem to be fully committed to creating what Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer called “the future of real-time communications” so “people can easily stay connected.”

They’ve started this with the integration with Facebook and Android, as well as having had an App out for some time. As further versions are developed, it will be interesting to see what features they plan to introduce next.