Skype for Mac 8.134.0.202

Overview

Skype for Mac is one of the most popular instant messaging and audio / video chat apps for the Mac OS X system. Cross-platform, Skype currently has 500 million registered users and over 25 million active users at any given time. Send mobile text SMS messages and instant messages over the internet. Make voice with a microphone or video calls using a video cam and microphone connected to the Mac. Local numbers can also be called with a package of calling credit bought from Skype. Free group video calls are also now possible with this Mac version when using Skype 5.0 or later for Windows or Mac and all users are connected via a 4Mbps down/512kbps up connection or better. Requires Mac OS X 10.5.8 or later.

Installation

Skype for Mac can be downloaded from Download3k or from the Skype site. Installation is simple enough and is completed quickly. If the user already has a Skype account or a Microsoft account, then they can enter these and login right away. Otherwise, an account will need to be created to access Skype's features.

Interface

The Skype for Mac interface is easy to use. Friends are shown in a list. Clicking on a friend and accessing the communication controls is simple and there are buttons to initiate a chat or call. Group video calls are now supported and then the user will be able to see all the people on the call at the same time, subject to computing power and the speed of the internet connection for all participants on the call.

Pros

• One of the most popular instant messaging, SMS texting, voice calling and video chatting applications
• 500 million accounts with 25 million active users
• Send free text messages inside the app
• Add credit to be able to send mobile SMS text messages or make calls to landline or mobiles over Skype
• Free group video calls when using Skype 5.0 or later and all users are connected via a 4Mbps down/512kbps up connection or better.
• Works with Mac OS X 10.5.8 or later.

Cons

In some countries, other chat applications have become more popular than Skype or are the preferred choice.

Alternatives

Viber is one alternative that is cross-platform supporting on desktop and mobile environments and has video calling capabilities.

Conclusion

Skype for Mac is almost a prerequisite for anyone serious about business communication. For personal communication, it will depend on what your friends use for VoIP communication as to whether you'll need Skype for Mac or not.