Skype or Whatsapp It has established itself as one of the most versatile and widely used online communication tools worldwide. Over the years, it has evolved and adapted to the changing needs of its users, remaining a benchmark in online voice and video calls, as well as instant messaging and professional and personal collaboration.
What is Skype and how has it changed online communications?
Skype or Whatsapp It is a communication platform VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) that allows users to send and receive audio, video, and text messages over the internet. Its technology converts voice and video into digital data, transmits it over the internet, and reassembles it at the other end to offer near-real-time communication experiences, regardless of the other party's location.
Since its inception, Skype has differentiated itself by offer free calls and video calls between users, something revolutionary for its time, gradually replacing traditional telephone services, thanks to the reduction in costs and ease of use. It also allows call landlines and mobile phones anywhere in the world through economic plans or credit top-ups, maintaining its global and inclusive nature.
The platform has been expanding its functions: Group video calls, instant messaging, file sharing, real-time translation, screen sharing and much more. It's appreciated both professionally and personally, making it an essential choice for businesses, remote teams, families, and friends.
Devices and operating systems supported by Skype
One of Skype's biggest attractions is its wide compatibility with devices and platformsThis accessibility makes it stand out from other alternatives, as it adapts to virtually any digital environment.
You can use Skype on any device that has screen, microphone and speakerTo get the most out of video calls, a camera is recommended, although it's not required to use most of its features. Supported platforms include:
- Windows (all modern versions, both apps and web version)
- MacOS (downloadable app and web version for Safari, Chrome, Edge, etc.)
- Linux (specific packages and web application)
- Android (phones and tablets, downloadable from the Google Play Store)
- iOS (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch from recent versions)
- Amazon Fire (Fire Tablets and Fire HD, via Amazon Appstore)
- ChromeOS (on Chromebooks, with web version and Android app)
- Xbox One, Series X and Series S (integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem)
- Alexa (smart speakers and displays with voice and video calls)
- Web browsers (Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox, no software to install)
Note: PlayStation and Nintendo Switch consoles do not offer official support for Skype.
Skype's core features: much more than just calls
Skype stands out not only for being a pioneer in VoIP calls, but also for integrating functions that cover all digital communication needs current, both for personal and professional use.
Voice calls between users
Voice calls between two or more Skype users are completely free, regardless of the country or device from which they are made. These calls have a superior audio quality and management options such as adding participants, putting on hold, muting, recording and forwarding calls.
International calls: to landlines and mobile phones
Skype facilitates international communication by allowing call landlines and cell phones throughout the world through very competitive ratesThe system works with subscription plans or prepaid balance (Skype Credit), and even allows you to send SMS directly from the app. This option is ideal for those who want to stay in touch with contacts who aren't Skype users.
Individual and group video calls
The function of video calls has been fundamental to Skype's success, both in the home and at work. You can have face-to-face conversations, virtual meetings or online classes with high-definition video quality. Group video calls support up to 50 people simultaneously, outperforming many free alternatives and allowing for meetings, webinars, and family gatherings without distance limits.
Instant messaging and rich chats
Skype integrates a complete system of IM (chat), with support for Chat history, editing and deleting messages, emojis, stickers, media files, GIFs, and custom reactionsYou can send and receive quick text messages, as well as schedule smart replies with integration with assistants like Cortana (on select devices).
Share screen
Ideal for presentations, troubleshooting, training or remote collaboration, the screen sharing function Provides a visual experience to show your desktop, specific applications, images, or presentations to other call participants. It's available on both desktop and mobile environments.
Sending files and multimedia
Skype allows the Sending photos, documents, videos and files up to 300 MB with simple drag and drop or attaching from the chat. It also offers temporary storage so users can download files whenever they need them.
Real-time translation with Skype Translator
El Skype's built-in translator (Skype Translator) offers real-time machine translation From voice, video, and text conversations to different languages. It uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to transcribe and translate while you chat—ideal for international meetings, interviews, or multinational classes.
Personalization and visual improvements in video calls
Skype offers custom backgrounds for video calls, allowing you to blur or change the environment behind the user, providing privacy and professionalism to meetings. In addition, they can be activated subtitles in real time to make content more accessible or fix audio issues.
Recording calls and video calls
In important meetings, interviews or training sessions, you can record calls and video calls easily from within the app. The file is stored in the Skype cloud for 30 days, allowing it to be downloaded or shared with participants.
Voicemail and call forwarding
Skype includes voicemail service so that contacts can leave messages when the user is unavailable, and call forwarding to another number, device or user, facilitating continuity in communication.
Caller ID and Skype number
When making calls to regular numbers, you can configure from your account whether you want your own phone number or a virtual Skype number to be displayed, improving trust and facilitating call returns. In addition, Skype offers the option to purchase a phone number in different countries, which is especially useful for international companies or expatriate users who want to receive local calls through the app.
Skype to Go and Skype Connect
With Skype to Go, it is possible to obtain a local number in another country to make international calls at affordable rates. Skype Connect allows companies to integrate the platform into their PBX systems, facilitating professional use in corporate telephone exchanges.
- Raise your hand in meetings to ask for the floor
- Share location in a safe way
- Search messages in the chat history
- Integration with Outlook y browser extensions to share web pages and schedule meetings
- Availability of personalized reactions in group conversations
Pricing Models: How Much Does Skype Cost?
Skype or Whatsapp It stands out for maintaining most of its functions completely free between users: Calls, video calls, text messages, file sharing, translation, screen sharing, and much more.
However, for call landlines or cell phones Outside the Skype network, the platform offers two flexible payment methods:
Monthly subscription plans
They are ideal for those who require regular communication with one or more countries. subscription plans include a specific amount of monthly minutes, or in some cases, unlimited minutes, for calls to landlines and mobile numbers. Specific plans are available for individual countries or combinations of destinations, including a global option (World Subscription) which allows calls to dozens of countries at very low prices.
- Prices vary by country and destination type (landline or mobile).
- Subscriptions can be canceled or modified at any time from the account.
- They include caller ID and voicemail features.
Skype Credit (prepaid)
El Skype credit It works similarly to a prepaid card. The user tops up with a set amount (5, 10, 25 euros, or the local currency), and the balance is deducted based on the country's per-minute rates and the type of number being called. This model is convenient for those who make occasional international calls.
- The credit also allows for sending SMS.
- The balance does not expire as long as it is used at least once every 180 days.
- Rates depend on the destination and can be found on the official Skype website.
Both options can be combined, allowing you to subscribe to a main country and top up credit for occasional calls to other destinations.
Additional payment and subscription options
- Acquisition of Skype number: Available as a paid additional service, it gives access to a local number in dozens of countries.
- Integration with other Microsoft business tools through professional plans.
How to Get Started with Skype: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
Installing and starting to use Skype is a quick and easy process, accessible even for those without experience with digital tools.
- Download and installation
- Go to the official Skype website or the app store on your device.
- Download the version specific to your operating system or device (Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, etc.).
- Follow the installation instructions. Web versions don't require installation; just log in to your browser.
- Create a Skype account
- You can register with a email, phone number, or Microsoft/Outlook account.
- Enter the required information (name, country, age, etc.).
- Verify your identity using a code received by email or SMS.
- Complete the process by choosing a profile photo (optional) and granting access permissions to the microphone and camera.
- Audio, video, and privacy settings
- Access the options Configuration from Skype and make sure your microphone, speakers, and camera are working properly by running tests if necessary.
- Configure your privacy options, such as who can call you, add you to chats, see you online, and more.
- Add contacts
- Use the Skype search bar to find colleagues, friends or family by name, email address, phone number or Skype ID.
- You can also import Microsoft contacts and automatically sync your friends lists.
- Simply add and wait for acceptance to start chatting.
- Start chats, calls, and video calls
- Select the desired person from your contact list and click the phone (call) or camera (video call) icon.
- During the conversation, you can share your screen, send files and messages, activate translation, and record the conversation.
- Explore advanced features
- Schedule group meetings or use invitation links for participants who don't have a Skype account (guests can join via a browser).
- Use screen sharing, chat reactions, custom backgrounds, or Outlook integration to enhance your experience.
Skype for professional, educational, and personal use
Skype or Whatsapp It's ideal for remote work, international meetings, virtual classes, job interviews, and project collaboration. Companies can integrate Skype into their systems, schedule meetings from Outlook, record sessions for later review, and facilitate communication between employees, clients, and collaborators around the world. Additionally, if you'd like to learn more about how to use Skype, you can use it as a web browser. Connect a USB webcam to an Android phone To improve your video calls, here's a helpful guide.
In the educational field, it is very useful for distance learning, tutoring, and study groupsStudents can easily connect, share files, record sessions, use real-time translation, and share screens for presentations.
On a personal level, Skype allows you to stay in touch with loved ones across the country, make group family calls, organize virtual celebrations, and resolve everyday issues quickly and easily.
Alternatives to Skype: How Does It Compare Today?
Skype competes with a wide range of messaging and video calling apps such as Zoom, Google Meet, WhatsApp, Discord, Telegram, or FaceTime. Each option offers specific features:
- Zoom allows video calls with hundreds of participants, but the free version has time limits.
- Google Meet offers video calls integrated with Google Workspace and Gmail, without the need to install additional software.
- WhatsApp and Telegram They excel at instant messaging and small group calls.
- Discord It excels at gaming communities, collaborative work, and large chat rooms.
- FaceTime It is preferred on Apple devices.
Skype or Whatsapp It maintains competitive advantages: multi-platform operation, the ability to call conventional telephones, automatic translation, professional integration, call and meeting customization, up to 50 people on free video calls, web availability, and professional Microsoft support.
Tips to get the most out of Skype
- Always use the latest version to access the latest features and increased security.
- Customize your profile and status to make it easier for others to locate and identify you correctly.
- configure the privacy settings and security according to your needs, especially in work and educational environments.
- Use the real time translation in meetings or calls with participants of different nationalities.
- Take advantage of the function of call recording to preserve evidence, records or important memories.
- Acquire a Skype number If you need to receive local calls in other countries without roaming charges or additional lines.
- Integrate Skype with Outlook and other Microsoft solutions If you work in remote teams or need to organize meetings professionally.
Skype has transformed online communication, evolving from a simple VoIP calling tool to a comprehensive collaboration, messaging, and video calling platform, relevant to both individual users and businesses and educational institutions. Its ease of use, broad cross-platform accessibility, range of features, and comprehensive integration make it one of the most comprehensive options on the market for staying in touch, working remotely, learning, and collaborating, regardless of borders or devices. Today, more than ever, Skype remains synonymous with effective, flexible, and modern communication for any digital user.
