In an era of countless communication apps, Skype remains a trailblazer and a reliable tool for connecting people across the globe. Since its founding in 2003, it pioneered the concept of free internet-based voice calls, bypassing traditional telephone lines and long-distance costs . Today, with over 36 million daily active users, it continues to be a vital platform for both personal and professional communication . Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to brush up on your skills, this guide will walk you through everything from the basics to more advanced features, covering how to use Skype, how to use Skype to Skype, how to make a call using Skype, and how to use Skype on phone.
Before you can connect with anyone, you need to set up your account. The process is straightforward and consistent across most devices.
1. Download the Application: Visit the official Skype website or your computer's app store to download and install the Skype application .
2. Install and Launch: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software. Once installed, launch the application.
3. Create an Account or Sign In: If you are new to Skype, click "Sign Up" or "Create a New Account." You will be prompted to provide an email address or a phone number and create a password. If you have a Microsoft account (like Outlook or Hotmail), you can use it to sign in directly .
The mobile experience is just as robust, allowing you to stay connected on the go. Here’s how to use Skype on phone:
1. Find the App: Open the Google Play Store (for Android) or the Apple App Store (for iPhone and iPad) .
2. Search and Install: Search for "Skype" and tap the "Install" or "Get" button. The official app is usually the top result .
3. Open and Sign In: Once installed, tap the Skype icon on your home screen to open it. From here, you can either sign in to your existing account or follow the prompts to create a new one directly from your phone .
The cornerstone of Skype's popularity is the ability to make free voice and video calls to other Skype users anywhere in the world. This is known as a Skype-to-Skype call .
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make a call using Skype to another Skype user:
1. Open Skype and Sign In: Launch the application on your computer or phone and log in to your account.
2. Select a Contact: Navigate to your "Contacts" tab. This list will show all the people you have added. Click or tap on the name of the person you wish to call .
3. Initiate the Call: Once you have opened a conversation with a contact, you will see two key buttons at the top of the screen:Audio Call: A phone handset icon. Click this to start a voice-only call.Video Call: A camera icon. Click this to start a video call .
4. Enjoy Your Call: The other person's device will ring. Once they answer, you can talk. When you're finished, click the red "End Call" button .
While Skype-to-Skype calls are free, you might occasionally need to call a traditional landline or a mobile number. This is known as a Skype-to-Phone call.
Important Update: Microsoft has phased out the option to buy Skype Credit for pay-as-you-go calls. You can no longer purchase "Skype Credit" or new Skype Numbers for this purpose . Existing credits can still be used, but the only way to continue making calls to non-Skype numbers is through a monthly calling subscription .
To call a phone number:
1. Open the "Calls" tab or tap the "Dial Pad" icon, which looks like a keypad.
2. Enter the full phone number, including the country code.
3. Tap the call button. The call will be connected using your subscription credits. You will see your caller ID on the recipient's phone .
Once you've mastered the basics of how to use Skype, you can explore some more advanced features to enhance your experience.
Skype is an excellent tool for group communication, supporting audio and video calls with up to 25 people .
1. Create a Group: Click the "New Chat" button and select "New Group Chat." Add the contacts you want to include .
2. Start the Call: Once your group is created, click the call or video call button at the top of the group conversation window. This will ring all the participants simultaneously .
A good experience depends on working hardware. You can check and manage your audio and video settings:
On Windows: Go toTools>Options>VideoSettings/AudioSettings .
On Mac: Go toSkype>Preferences>Audio/Video .
You can also use accessibility shortcuts to check your status during a call:
On Windows:Ctrl+Alt+M to announce microphone status;Ctrl+Shift+Alt+K for video status.
On Mac:Command+Shift+Option+M for microphone;Command+Shift+Option+K for video .
Despite new competitors, Skype's longevity is a testament to its core functionality. It offers a secure and encrypted way to communicate . Its accessibility features, such as compatibility with screen readers like Windows Narrator and Mac VoiceOver, make it an inclusive choice for users with disabilities . Moreover, its widespread use means there is a high chance your contacts are already on the platform, making it a simple answer to the question of how to use Skype phone—you just use your device and the app.
Learning how to use Skype is a valuable skill that opens up a world of free, high-quality communication. From setting up your account on a computer or learning how to use Skype on phone, to making your first Skype-to-Skype call, the process is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. Whether you are connecting with family, colleagues, or friends, Skype provides a reliable, feature-rich platform that has stood the test of time. Now that you have the knowledge, log in and start calling!
