Buzz
Microsoft seems to be seizing the opportunity for Skype as Zoom struggles to maintain and safeguard its over 200 million users from recently discovered security and privacy issues. The ongoing troubles have left New York City 'chilly' towards Zoom, endorsing Microsoft Teams in over 1,800 schools as the global trend of transitioning to Zoom alternatives accelerates. Skype is also one of such alternatives. Recently, this messaging app has added a new video calling feature similar to Zoom, but taking a step ahead by allowing users to initiate online meetings without registration on the platform.
- Download Skype for Android - Download Skype for iPhone
Although Skype has remained in its own shadow in the past due to mishandling by Microsoft after acquiring the platform, the new Meet Now feature of the application emerges at the right time for many looking to organize and participate in remote meetings, as Zoom pauses feature development and deals with security issues.
Skype's process unfolds swiftly and simply, enabling hosting a video conference within seconds. Each meeting has a unique link that hosts can share with participants, with no requirement for either party to register on Skype. Microsoft also notes that these meeting links do not expire and can be used anytime.
PC users can join calls via the Skype app or Skype for Web, as long as they are using Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. Mobile users can also join as guests, but they need to install Skype on their mobile devices because pasting meeting links in the browser on mobile devices will prompt them to install the app.
Other features of Skype such as screen sharing and background blur are also available for Meet Now calls, along with the ability to record conversations for later viewing, which Skype retains for 30 days.
At first glance, Skype's Meet Now based on its links seems somewhat akin to Zoom's Meeting ID feature, but in a way that easily allows people to join the conversation with minimal information. While its security measures may be stronger compared to Zoom, Skype Meet Now calls could still be susceptible to 'Zoom bombing,' and it remains to be seen whether this feature will be popular enough for Skype to regain its reputation. Lastly, refer to How to use Meet Now feature on Skype here.
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