Microsoft has just released a new version of Skype for Linux. This time the new update doesn't come as an Alpha sub-release but appears to be the first Beta of the popular app for the Linux platform.
This specific release was expected as Skype has been developing the Alpha version since 2016, with the aim of retiring the ancient version 4.3.
This update includes features that make using Skype on Linux much easier. In addition to performance improvements and bug fixes, there are the following new features:
Calling Updates: Calls to mobiles and landlines with Skype (service is charged), (1-1) video calls from Linux to Skype users with the latest versions of Skype for Android, iOS, Windows and Mac.
Better collaboration: Linux users can now see the screens of their interlocutors using the Skype desktop client (Windows 7.33 and above, Mac 7.46 and above).
The Beta version contains several usability improvements: Unity launcher that shows the number of unread conversations, online contacts in your contact list with away and Do Not Disturb options.
You can download Skype for Linux Beta version 5.0 from www.skype.com/download.
