Those not too into the Skype desktop app now have another way to use the video communication service - Skype for Web.
The service entered open beta in the U.S. and the U.K. a few weeks ago, and it is now available anywhere. As of today, it works with Chrome OS and Linux, on top of the Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Safari and Firefox support already announced.
"Skype for Web is perfect if you normally use Skype on your mobile, but want to quickly get to your calls and IMs on a bigger screen," said Microsoft in a blog post. "Or perhaps you're sitting at a Windows or Mac computer in an Internet café or hotel that doesn't already have Skype downloaded. If you're in the U.S. or U.K. and are using a computer, take a moment to give Skype for Web a try."
It's important to note that functionality is still rather limited, as is expected from a beta program. While the service is available on Chrome OS, support is limited, and users will not be able to make or take video calls just yet. They will, however, be able to instant message.
Instant messaging is available across all platforms, with users able to make video calls on OS X or Windows with the help of a plugin, which will need to be installed. Ideally, however, the need for this plugin will not be around for much longer.
Microsoft, along with a number of other big tech companies such as Google, has been working to create ORTC, or Object Real-Time Communications. Long story short, this technology will be included in future Internet browsers, and will allow users to use Skype for Web without having to install plugins.
Microsoft has been making a big push for the development of Skype of late. The company recently announced a real-time translation feature, which is currently in beta and available for download to anyone who wants it. The feature supports English, Spanish, Italian and Mandarin.
Real-time translation, while in open beta, will be integrated into the desktop version of Skype later this summer, and will likely also eventually make it into Skype for Web.
"We are thrilled with the positive response from around the world, and especially thankful to ALL of the early adopters who downloaded the application, and use it every day! Remember: Skype Translator uses machine learning, so the more people use the technology, the better the experience for everyone!" said the company.
