Skype

A former Microsoft contractor working in Beijing revealed that there were "no security measures" in place for their work of grading Skype and Cortana recordings. The source said that over two years, he worked on his personal laptop from home, from where he accessed the audio from a Google Chrome app.

A new Microsoft patent suggests the company might be preparing to release a new Skype-focused smart speaker. Last month Microsoft filed a patent for an iPhone-focused "Skype dock." The new device would have a built-in projector that allows for 3D reconstructions during Skype calls.

Skype has launched a bunch of new features for mobile and desktop, including drafts, bookmarks, and previews. Also, the split window feature (showing contacts and conversations) that launched recently for Windows 10 has now landed for Windows, Mac, and Linux running the latest version of Skype.

Microsoft’s contractors are listening to some Skype calls and Cortana voice commands. According to a recent report published by Motherboard, some Skype calls made via Skype’s Translator feature are being recorded and sent to contractors to be reviewed as part of Skype’s translation service.

Skype has officially launched screen sharing for Android and iOS so you can share your swipes on dating apps, shop with buddies, or, if you really must, show a PowerPoint presentation to co-workers. It also rolled out a new menu offering quick access to various features, and a cleaner interface for video calls.

Skype now allows for up to 50 people in video and audio chats, double that of before. And instead of ringing everyone as a way to get a group call started, you can now send unobtrusive notifications to get everyone’s attention. The update is available now with the latest version of Skype for Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Microsoft is currently testing a key change to its Skype video conferencing software. The latest beta version of Skype is now introducing an ability to enter a video call with up to 50 people, a change from the current public version which has a maximum limit of 25 participants.

Skype has given the web version of its video chat service a makeover, adding high-definition calls, a recording feature, and a revamped notification panel, among other extras. Skype for web launched in 2015 and allows anyone with a Microsoft account to launch a chat without having to download any software.

Skype has launched a new feature that lets you blur your background during video calls. The idea is that it keeps you as the focus instead of distracting others with whatever embarrassing things you might have on show behind you. Skype's background blur works on desktop and can be activated in a couple of clicks.

Microsoft enabled a feature that brings real-time translation and transcription to your Skype video calls. Launched to celebrate the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the closed-captioning feature aims to use A.I. to break down communication barriers to foster better collaboration.

Ten years after launching video chats, Skype has finally added call recording to desktop and mobile. The feature stores recorded chats in the cloud and lets you save and share them, too. The new addition means users can now choose whether to ditch their third-party recording software in favor of Skype's offering.

Microsoft is taking a back-to-basics approach with Skype's new UI. In addition to removing certain features, such as Highlights, the company is also looking to improve the UI's usability by focusing on a simple, clean UI. We're also getting new themes such as Dark and Classic.

If you're a fan of Skype, then we have some good news for you. Microsoft is working on a new Skype feature called SMS Connect, which will allow you to use Skype to send and receive text messages on your PC -- provided you have an Android phone.

The next release of the Skype VOIP client will add call recording for both voice and video chats, bringing users a feature that has been available to businesses for years. Until now, home users who wanted to record calls had to use third-party software, but once August rolls around, that's all going to change.

There's now another medium through which you can exercise your passive-aggressive tendencies (or just generally let folks know that their messages aren't going into the void). Skype has announced that its latest version (Skype 8.26.76) will finally include read receipts. It's currently available to Insiders.

The latest preview build for Windows Insiders is out and with it sees the removal of Sets. Originally slated to be a part of the next major feature update, Sets intended to group your favorite apps together for a more productive workflow. But Microsoft decided to remove Sets based on feedback.

Researchers recently unveiled the TeleHuman 2, a system they’re boasting as the “first truly holographic video conferencing system.” It's designed to bring video conferences to life, enabling people to pick up on the subtle body language that is often essential to communication.

Microsoft distributed an email over the weekend alerting customers to its updated Code of Conduct rules starting May 1, 2018.

Apple's proprietary video-calling app, FaceTime, allows users to video chat with friends and family, but what else can it do?

It’s no big surprise that engineers and scientists working in cutting edge tech are often inspired by science fiction. Here are seven examples of sci-fi gadgets engineers helped bring to life.

Using Open Whisper System's Signal Protocol, Skype has released a preview of end-to-end encrypted "Private Conversations" to select users.

Version 2.0.5.0 of Microsoft's handy Sticky Notes app is out, squashing bugs and packing new features. The app now supports bullet messages.