Skype

Skype
License:
Free
Language:
English
Developer:
OS:
Mac OS X
Updated:
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Softonic review

Nick Mead

“The second incarnation of Skype for Mac”

by Nick Mead about Skype

Skype has made the technology accessible to all through it’s simple and fun-to-use chat-style interface and although this version has now been superseded by version 5, some users may still prefer it because of its slimmer interface.

Version 2 also contains some decent additions to the previous version, most notably its webcam facilities. This means you can now watch your buddies as you chat to them and let them see you if you want.

You can use the program to chat with other Skype users anywhere in the world for free either via telephone or the built-in chat feature. However, some overly optimistic users may be disappointed to learn that you still need to pay for credits to make calls to landlines and mobiles with Skype, through the SkypeOut function. Luckily, this is a very painless process, and Skype has recently added a plethora of different ways to pay.

The program is perhaps even easier to use than ever, with streamlined new tools such as the ability to add a contact from the main Skype window and contact grouping for arranging your friends, family and colleagues into categories. You can even import contacts from Outlook, and find out if any of these use Skype. The changes to the interface and its icons may confuse existing users for a while, but once you get used to it, the new GUI is arguably more intuitive than ever.

As we’ve come to expect there’s plenty you can do other than just having a two-way conversation with a friend, including inviting other users into a conference, setting up chatrooms, exchanging files, and viewing the history of your contacts. You can even set up customized voicemail to record messages while you’re away from base.

Skype 2 remains a slimmed down version of Skype that may have been replaced by Skype 5 but still somehow feels simpler and more straightforward than the latter.

Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Sharp videoconferencing mode
  • Keeps records of all your calls
  • Lots of features to improve your chat experience
  • Saves you a fortune on long-distance calls
Cons
  • Still not free for calling landlines or mobiles, although it's cheaper than most regular phone networks
  • Superseded by version 5
Free Download Skype 2.8.0.866

Skype is virus free

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Skype (1) User reviews

  • Good
  • 8/10
  • Emoai Emoai
    User reviews
    1
    • Good
    • 3/10
    Skype ???

    Too complicated! Does not explain how to use in simple terms. I was not able to find answers to basic questions I tried to ask...There has got to be a way to explain the How to use for the... More

    • Review of Skype - 01 Feb 2011
      This review is liked by 11 of 15
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