On Thursday, Skype launched a new Windows beta version, Skype 5.0, with group video calling feature. The beta allows as many as five users at once and lets share screens during the call. Both a modern computer and a fast Internet connection are needed for every user.
Skype said the feature was free during the beta but would be a pay premium service in the future. Skype promises to keep chat and voice only service will remain free. A Mac version of the feature is in development, as well.
System Requirements
- PC running Windows 2000, XP or Vista. (Windows 2000 users require DirectX 9.0 for video calls).
- Internet connection (broadband is best, GPRS is not supported for voice calls, and results may vary on a satellite connection).
- Speakers and microphone -“ built-in or separate.
- For voice and video calls a computer with at least a 1GHz processor, 256 MB RAM and of course a webcam.
- For High Definition (HD) video calls both you and the person you’re talking to need Skype 4.2 for Windows or higher, plus HD webcams. You’ll also need a high-speed broadband connection (we recommend sustained 1 Mbps symmetrical bandwidth or higher) and a PC with at least a 1.8 GHz processor.
- Group video calling currently works with Skype 5.0 Beta for Windows only. Everyone on the call needs this version of Skype, otherwise the group video call won’t work
