Seeing the sudden spike in the demand for video conferencing apps, Skype, one of the oldest in the business, has been shaken from its stupor and is now offering easier ways to get connected. Microsoft, which owns Skype, has released a new feature called “Meet Now”. With this, there is no need for the users to even download the app or go through the elaborate signing up process.
The process is explained thus: the admin generates a video link and shares it with the others. Those receiving the link may not have the Skype app installed in their device. They could just click on the link which will direct them to a separate browser window where the call can be started.
Skype has also made this more user friendly by allowing the video call to be recorded; you can blur the background and share the screen etc.
The recorded videos can be stored up to 30 days. The “Meet Now” feature is also device neutral; you can use any device to use the feature.
Apps like Zoom and Houseparty have capitalised on the work from home and stay indoors diktats by most local governments and administrations across the globe. There have been reports of some privacy and security issues with the Zoom app but that has hardly had any major impact on the usage by corporate professionals and others to stay in touch. Houseparty is mostly used by children and adults alike for playing games online through video connectivity.
Some of the conventional business models like Skype have to reinvent themselves to compete with the new-age apps like Zoom. They have found newer applications including focusing on specific groups like educational institutions etc.