Microsoft Outlook users who wish they could make Skype calls directly from within the Outlook contact manager will be pleased to learn that the latest Skype 6.1 release has just added that support.
Skype 6.1 for Windows also adds features making it easy to send a Skype instant message, start a free Skype-to-Skype call, or make a call to any mobile or landline, directly from within Microsoft Outlook.
Enhanced Integration with Microsoft Outlook
“It’s easy to get in touch. We have integrated Skype and Outlook to display contacts’ online status, contact information, and mood message within the Outlook contact card. When you want to contact anyone in your Outlook contact list who is already on Skype, you can instant message, audio, or video call them. To do so, they need to be in your Skype contacts list to reach them.”
This integration means that users no longer need to switch between applications to communicate with their contacts. The convenience of having Skype functionalities embedded within Outlook can significantly enhance productivity, especially for business users who rely heavily on both platforms for daily communication. For instance, if you receive an email from a colleague and need to discuss it further, you can instantly start a Skype call or send a message without leaving Outlook. This seamless experience can save valuable time and streamline workflows.
New Features for Mac Users
As well as the new Outlook support for Skype for Windows, Microsoft has also rolled out a Skype 6.1 version for Mac, complete with new features enabling users to call directly from Safari webpages. This feature is particularly useful for Mac users who frequently browse the web and need to make calls based on information found online. For example, if you come across a business contact’s phone number on their website, you can initiate a call directly from Safari without needing to copy and paste the number into Skype.
The Mac version also includes improvements in the user interface, making it more intuitive and user-friendly. These enhancements are designed to provide a consistent experience across different operating systems, ensuring that all users, regardless of their platform, can enjoy the benefits of Skype’s integration with other applications.
Additional Benefits and Future Prospects
The integration of Skype with Outlook and Safari is just the beginning. Microsoft is continually working on enhancing the interoperability of its products to provide a more cohesive user experience. Future updates may include even deeper integration with other Microsoft Office applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, allowing users to initiate Skype calls or send messages directly from these programs.
Moreover, the ability to see a contact’s online status and mood message within Outlook can help users decide the best way to communicate. For example, if a contact is marked as “Do Not Disturb,” you might choose to send an instant message rather than making a call. This feature can help in managing communication more effectively and respecting the recipient’s availability.
The release of Skype 6.1 with its enhanced integration with Microsoft Outlook and Safari marks a significant step forward in improving user convenience and productivity. Whether you are a Windows or Mac user, these new features are designed to make your communication more seamless and efficient. As Microsoft continues to innovate and integrate its products, users can look forward to even more powerful and cohesive tools in the future.
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