Skype has recently introduced a beta version for their videoconferencing service which will be accessible via web browser. At present Internet Explorer 10 and above, the latest versions of Chrome and Firefox and Mac OS: Safari 6 and above are the browsers that are supported.
Skype’s move to the browser is stated to be a step towards making WebRTC a reality. However at present the installation of a plug-in is required. Singing in to the Skype website with a browser that has the relevant plug-in installed will offer the same functionality as Skype on other platforms.
Users will not only be able to chat and videoconference, but they will also have access to the relevant conversation histories that are associated with the conversations linked to their accounts.
Videoconferencing is one of the most demanded solutions in Asia Pacific. Integrators from India all the way to Australia have stated that end users in many regions are looking for ways to collaborate across distances with videoconferencing being the preferred options.
WebRTC and by interpolation Skype for the browser are viewed as positive moves that will familiarize end-users with the benefits of videoconferencing. AV professionals believe that as the end user’s demands from their videoconferencing service increase with regards to features and security, they will transition over to professional videoconferencing solutions.