Skype Gets Custom Backgrounds with the Latest Update

Apr. 23, 2020

Having to clean our rooms to make video calls and attend meetings was quite stressful until popular video conferencing app Zoom added custom backgrounds. Now that people are relying on video conferencing platforms due to work from home and social distancing in the wake of coronavirus pandemic, competing video conferencing platforms likeMicrosoft Teamsstarted adding the feature and the latest platform to gain the feature is Microsoft’s own Skype, whichwon’t be going away anytime soon.

With the latest version 8.59.0.77 of Skype, you can now use custom backgrounds on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Web. However, theMicrosoft Store version of Skype doesn’t support the feature just yetand you’ll have to download the application fromSkype’s websiteto use it.

AsEngadgetpoints out, custom backgrounds fromWalt Disney Studiosor the ones offered byHBOwould instantly level up your video call’s overall aesthetics. You may find neat custom backgrounds on Twitter as there are several threads on the topic or in our articlehere.

Apart from custom backgrounds, the new update brings quick file sharing via Skype on Mac. Skype users on Mac can now right-click on a file in Finder and chooseOpen With -> Skypeto share them. The update also gives quick access to call controls in the chat menu.

So, if you’ve been holding on to Zoom despite theprivacy concernssurrounding the platform, now would be a good time to check out the good-old Skype to know if it suits your use-case and your team’s daily workflow.

Subin writes about consumer tech, software, and security. He secretly misses the headphone jack while pretending he’s better off with the wireless freedom.