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Microsoft brings its Bing AI chatbot to mobile apps and Skype
Those with access to Microsoft's new AI-powered chatbot can now use it in the Bing and Edge mobile apps, as well as Skype. The company has added voice control too.
Skype can now make 911 calls in the United States
It can also share your location with emergency services.
Skype reveals a colorful redesign, new features and performance upgrades
You can show off yourself and your pet at the same time using the TwinCam feature.
Skype's latest update uses AI to make group calls less awkward
Together Mode from Microsoft Teams is now available in Skype.
Microsoft is putting Skype's seamless 'Meet Now' calls in the taskbar
In the pandemic, video calling has exploded but one of the original names in the space has been slow to capitalize. While Zoom is now a household name, Skype is not seeing the same bump in reputation and use. Microsoft’s internet calling service tried to rectify that earlier this year by activating Meet Now, a Zoom-like feature that lets hosts set up and share a free meeting with just three clicks — no one has to install anything or sign up for an account.
Fujifilm's webcam software will work on macOS in July
Fujifilm has released new firmware for its entry-level X-A7 and X-T200 cameras that allows them to double as webcams.
Facebook expands Portal group calls to 50 people
It's bringing more Zoom-esque features to the device.
Fujifilm's app turns your X series and GFX cameras into webcams
Fujifilm has joined Canon in releasing software that allows you to use select X series and GFX medium format mirrorless cameras as webcams.
How to use your high-end camera as a webcam
If you're thinking of buying a webcam, here’s an option you may not have thought of. If you happen to have a DSLR, mirrorless or compact camera, you may be able to put it into service as a high-quality webcam. In some cases, particularly with select Canon, Nikon and Sony models on Windows, you might not even need any extra hardware at all.
How to secure your video calls like a pro
During a cyberpunk dystopia, a highly contagious pandemic, and tons of leadership incompetence, it's surprising that video call privacy and security is pissing me off the most.
Recommended Reading: The life of a dropshipper
The week's best writing on technology and more.
Anchor converts your video calls into podcasts
Spotify's Anchor is adding yet another way for people to more easily produce their own podcasts.
Skype takes on Zoom with custom backgrounds for video calls
Microsoft also brought the feature to Teams this month.
As cinephiles shelter, studios are catching on to virtual movie nights
Compared to a Twitter Watch Party, a Netflix Party is a more intimate affair.
Skype rolls out 'Meet Now' calls that don't need a sign-up or installation
With people forced out of their offices and schools to avoid spreading coronavirus, there are more video calls going on than ever. However, a significant chunk of the action has gone to Zoom, and not Skype, Microsoft's product that has been at the center of online voice and video chats since well before smartphones were commonplace. That's mostly because Zoom has made sharing meetings and the necessary software so easy -- perhaps too easy, with some security and privacy compromises -- but Skype is finally ready to fight back with "Meet Now." With Meet Now, hosts can create and share a free meeting with just three clicks, according to the company. Even the host doesn't need to have Skype installed -- you can start the process from its website right here -- and then invite people either using a simple link or the share button. If the person you're inviting has Skype installed then it will open the app directly to the call, and if not then it will open the web client that works in Chrome or Edge. Zoom has already made some changes and pledged more to address its issues -- we'll see if this setup helps Skype claw back any users who've already gotten used to using competitor's software for their meetings.
Wyze security cameras can now double as work-from-home webcams
Group video chat software like Zoom, Skype and Google Duo let people connect and work during the coronavirus lockdown, but what if you don't have a webcam? Wyze has unveiled a new option by letting you transform your Wyze Cam v2 or Wyze Pan security cameras into webcams, as spotted by Zatz Not Funny.
Conan O'Brien will shoot full-length shows using an iPhone and Skype
With COVID-19 self-isolation, we can all use as much entertainment as possible. To that end, Conan O'Brien and his staff aim to prove that it's possible to produce a full-length television show from home using technology. "I am going back on the air [on TBS] Monday, March 30th," O'Brien wrote on Twitter. "All my staff will work from home, I will shoot at home using an iPhone, and my guests will Skype."
Oman lifts restrictions on secure video chats
In an effort to help businesses and schools function remotely, Oman is lifting restrictions on some video calling services. Its Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) tweeted that it will allow Skype for Business, Google Meet and Zoom, so that organizations can better communicate "during this exceptional period."
Microsoft contractors reportedly reviewed Cortana clips on insecure PCs
New details have emerged about how Microsoft operated its Cortana and Skype grading programs in the past. Building on a Vice report from last summer, The Guardian says that for several years, the tech giant contracted a company in China that used almost "no security measures" to protect the recordings.
Skype messaging is getting some much-needed upgrades
Most people still see Skype as their go-to app for free video calls, rather than an app for messages like iMessage or Whatsapp. That could very likely change. The Microsoft-owned company today unveiled some new features that will allow its chat tool to hold its own against the major standalone messaging apps. Users will now be able to save draft messages, display multiple photos and videos, preview media files and more.
