Skype 4.0 for Windows Released, Boasts Improved Call Quality
We are glad to report that Skype kept true to its word and moved the software out of Beta with the release of Skype 4.0 for machines running on the Windows-based operating system. People keeping track of these things will undoubtedly remember that Skype 4.0’s development has been in Beta for the better half of a year now, so it goes without saying that this release is very much welcomed.
According to Skype, version 4.0 which replaces the now outdated Skype 3.8 for Windows has been designed with user feedback in mind. Tens of thousands of people have tested the Beta, relayed their likes and dislikes to Skype, which then used this information when coming up with Skype 4.0. Let’s see what the updated software has to offer.
Video calls continue to be offered free-of-charge, but you will immediately notice that the size of the video window has increased. This is meant to make your video chats a lot more enjoyable, not to mention easier on the eyes. Instant Messaging (IM) chat windows also take a lot more desktop real-estate; unlike previous versions, Skype 4.0 now blends the call window and the contact list into one, big window. If this change does not particularly suit your tastes, you can always switch between the “default” and “compact view mode.
Another issue that has been addressed with Skype 4.0 for Windows is quality: video quality and audio quality. The built-in bandwidth manager ensures you always get the best user experience when making video calls; just to put things in perspective, video chats can run 30fps (frames per second) with a 400kb/s or better connection. In the audio department Skype 4.0 features a new audio codec that is meant to make calls “crystal clear and even more reliable”.
We must also mention one additional feature included in Skype 4.0 that is meant to address you multiple conversation needs. The “Conversations” tab will come in handy when you communicate with multiple people at once by letting you choose the means in which you wish to convey your message.
If you would like to get Skype 4.0 for Windows, a download location is available here.
According to Skype, version 4.0 which replaces the now outdated Skype 3.8 for Windows has been designed with user feedback in mind. Tens of thousands of people have tested the Beta, relayed their likes and dislikes to Skype, which then used this information when coming up with Skype 4.0. Let’s see what the updated software has to offer.
Video calls continue to be offered free-of-charge, but you will immediately notice that the size of the video window has increased. This is meant to make your video chats a lot more enjoyable, not to mention easier on the eyes. Instant Messaging (IM) chat windows also take a lot more desktop real-estate; unlike previous versions, Skype 4.0 now blends the call window and the contact list into one, big window. If this change does not particularly suit your tastes, you can always switch between the “default” and “compact view mode.
Another issue that has been addressed with Skype 4.0 for Windows is quality: video quality and audio quality. The built-in bandwidth manager ensures you always get the best user experience when making video calls; just to put things in perspective, video chats can run 30fps (frames per second) with a 400kb/s or better connection. In the audio department Skype 4.0 features a new audio codec that is meant to make calls “crystal clear and even more reliable”.
We must also mention one additional feature included in Skype 4.0 that is meant to address you multiple conversation needs. The “Conversations” tab will come in handy when you communicate with multiple people at once by letting you choose the means in which you wish to convey your message.
If you would like to get Skype 4.0 for Windows, a download location is available here.
