Microsoft has today released a new update for Linux Skype in the form of Linux Alpha as well as adding calling on Google’s Chrome operating system and Chromebooks. The launch of the new Alpha version of a new Skype for Linux client, as the first update Microsoft has rolled out to Skype on the Linux operating system since 2014.
Microsoft is also looking for help to develop the new Skype for Linux experience and is looking for users to provide feedback to help them prioritise features which are required by the user base.
Microsoft explains a little more about the new Skype Linux update and support on Chrome :
As you may have guessed by the name, Skype for Linux Alpha is not a fully functioning Skype client as of yet. We’re sharing it with you now as we want to get it in your hands as soon as possible, so we can continue to develop the new version together. Once you’ve downloaded the app, you’ll notice that it’s very different to the Skype for Linux client you use today. For example, you’ll be using the latest, fastest and most responsive Skype UI, so you can share files, photos, videos and a whole new range of new emoticons with your friends.
We can only get better with your feedback. As we develop this new version of Skype for Linux, we need you to test, provide feedback and help us prioritize features. You will notice that with the Alpha version of Skype for Linux, which uses our next generation calling architecture, you will be able to call your friends and family on the latest versions of Skype on Windows, Mac, iOS and Android, but you won’t be able to make or receive calls to and from the previous versions of Skype for Linux (4.3.0.37). Please do provide here on the Linux board as much feedback as you can on Skype for Linux Alpha, so we can continue to improve call quality and reliability. And please make sure to use the label ‘LinuxAlpha’ so we can easily collect the feedback from the board.
A couple of months ago, we announced plugin free calling using ORTC on Skype for Web, Outlook and Office Web Apps using Microsoft Edge. ORTC makes it possible to make free voice and video calls on Skype without needing to download an app or browser plug in – so it’s really easy to get started on Skype.
Today, anyone using a Chromebook or Chrome on Linux can now visit web.skype.com and make one-to-one and group voice calls on top of the messaging features they get today. This again is an alpha version of Skype based on WebRTC and inherits the same features of the Alpha version of the Skype for Linux client. This is our initial step on our path to replicate ORTC capabilities beyond Microsoft Edge. As such, we want to hear feedback to help us deliver more excitement in the upcoming months.
For more information on the new updates jump over to the Microsoft website for details by following the link below.
Source: Liliputing : Microsoft
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