Skype Without Skype: Using Outlook.com for Video Calls
Skype Access Within Your Browser
Skype is a communication service that elicits both positive and negative reactions from its users. However, if maintaining contact with certain individuals necessitates its use, you’ll find it’s now possible to utilize Skype without a dedicated messaging client installed.
Plugin Requirement
Accessing Skype directly within a browser requires the installation of a plugin. While this may seem similar to using the desktop application, it involves installing software regardless, leaving the choice of method to personal preference.
Microsoft’s Integration of Skype
Microsoft’s acquisition of Skype signaled forthcoming developments and integrations. Outlook.com users are now able to engage in chat conversations, as well as initiate audio and video calls, through the Skype for Outlook.com preview feature.
Browser Compatibility
This new functionality is enabled via a plugin, compatible with Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Chrome browsers. Users of alternative browsers, such as Opera or Safari, will need to continue utilizing the standard Skype application.
Setting Up Skype in Outlook.com
Begin by navigating to the Skype website and selecting the ‘Sign in’ link located at the top of the page. Then, within the ‘Sign in’ section, click the ‘Microsoft account’ link.
Account Linking
Sign in with your Microsoft account credentials. If you already possess a Skype account linked to a different email address, you have the option to merge the two accounts. Simply click the ‘I have a Skype account’ or ‘I’m new to Skype’ button as appropriate.
Merging Existing Accounts
After signing into your existing Skype account, click the ‘Merge accounts’ button to proceed with the linking process.
Initiating Skype Through Outlook
Next, access Outlook.com and sign in to your Microsoft account. A Messaging panel may already be visible on the right side of the page. If not, click the speech bubble icon located at the far right of the toolbar to reveal it.
Panel Contents
The content displayed within the messaging panel will vary depending on your previous usage of your Microsoft account and any linked services.
Accessing Skype Contacts
Under the ‘Add people to chat to’ heading, select the ‘Skype contacts’ link.
Plugin Installation
As previously mentioned, Skype integration within Outlook is facilitated by a plugin. You will be prompted to install it at this point – simply click the ‘Get started’ button.
Agreement and Download
Click ‘I agree - continue’ to be redirected to the Skype plugin download page. The plugin is provided as a .msi file, which must be downloaded and then executed.
Completing Installation
Once the installation process is complete, close the popup window and return to Outlook.com. A page refresh may be necessary, along with re-enabling the messaging sidebar.
Starting a Conversation
Click within the search bar to display a list of available contacts, from which you can select a recipient. Alternatively, you can search for a specific individual.
Text Chat
Selecting a contact’s name will initiate a standard text-based chat session.
Audio and Video Calls
At the top of the messaging pane, you’ll find buttons to initiate either an audio or video call. Clicking one of these will open a separate window to host the call, featuring a user interface similar to the standalone Skype application.