Skype 4.0 with free group video on Samsung Smart TVs and Skype 5.9 for iPhone
Following the acquisition of Skype by Microsoft, the software company continues to find new ways to expand the reach of their VoIP communications software. After launching a studio-focused Skype TX version and free group chat updates for the Windows and Mac versions, Skype 4.0 for TV has now just been released for Samsung Smart TVs with free group video chat capabilities.
Group video calling was made free by Microsoft back in April 2014 on the Windows app, Mac OS X, and the Xbox One console. Windows 2 in 1 machines and Windows tablets also benefited from free group video calling later than same year. This service has now been extended to select Samsung Smart TV models released in 2014.
The latest fourth version of Skype on TV includes video calls that can be shared between three people at the same time so several members of the family can join in the conversation from their own devices wherever they are.
1080p Video Calls Supported
The Skype 4.0 version supports Samsung Smart TVs which include a web cam. Wide angles are often supported which helps to provide a better visual to the one or 2 other participants in the video call. 1080P HD video support is now included as well subject to having a fast enough internet connection to support the sending and receiving of compressed HD video and HD audio content.
Internet Broadband Speeds Required for Best Performance
To enjoy a high definition experience it is recommended that at least 1 Mbps of symmetrical bandwidth is available during the call. With group video calls, the bare minimum bandwidth is 512 kbps downstream and 128 kbps upstream, but 2 Mbps downstream and 512 kbps upstream is recommended for improved performance. The software will naturally reduce the quality of the video and audio if the internet speed is insufficient and there is an increased risk of video calls being dropped should the connection get interrupted.
The web cam included with the Smart TV must be HD quality. If a web cam is a 720p type then that is the maximum video quality that can be sent, however the Smart TV can receive and display a 1080p video stream if the television set has a 1080p or greater screen resolution.
Firmware Software Update Needed
For owners of a suitable Samsung Smart TV the update to Skype on TV is included in a firmware update for the respective model. This makes it a simple matter for owners to get the benefit of the latest Skype communications software more quickly. There are some Getting Started instructions which can help Samsung Smart TV owners who wish to using the Skype software right away.
Skype 5.9 for iPhone
The Skype app for iPhone users has also been updated to provide a better dial pad. There is now a new way to select a friend and begin chatting with them more quickly. Once having tapped on the friend in the contact list, simply tapping either the phone or video icon will begin a voice or video call with that person.
Microsoft is also putting their best foot forward by asking for users of iOS products to consider signing up to their pre-release program. Early testing version of Skype iOS apps will then be offered to people who sign up to test them first.
