19 June 2008, 16:58

Simplified video telephony in Skype 4.0 - beta available

Skype has released a beta of version 4.0 of its Windows client, featuring improvements to video calling. The beta was announced by Mike Bartlett, Director of Windows Product Management at Skype in his blog, and has a simplified one-click start for initiating video calls. The video display is larger from the beginning of the call, there is no initial 'thumbnail' display, and Skype 4.0 supports HD (High Definition) video.

In general, the Skype development team have concentrated on simplifying the user interface without loss of functionality. Rather than the multiple windows seen in the preceding versions Skype 4.0 now displays all its functions in a single window, designed to facilitate conducting several conversations at once, with voice, video, IM and file transfers all active. The option to conduct conversations in separate windows is still there, if required. A new Conversations button allows choice from a list of active conversations.

Setting up I/O hardware for use with earlier version could be tricky. Skype claims the new version has greatly improved detection and automatic installation of headsets, microphones and webcams. Skype claim it is even possible to switch hardware mid-call, without losing the connection.

Although all the core functionality is supported, Skype 4.0 beta 1 is lacking some features of the final version such as redial, call forwarding, sending contact details and Skype Prime.

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