Skype Introduces Video Messaging To Help Reach Offline Contacts

Skype has announced its free video messaging service is coming out of preview and heading into applications on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and BlackBerry.

The feature promises to solve the problem of conflicting schedules and missed appointments. It allows users to record and send three-minute messages to offline contacts, directly from Skype.

A new twist on the old Skype

The feature is available to all Skype users at no additional charge. To create a video message, users have to tap the new “video message” button, record their missive and press the envelope icon to send it to any of their existing contacts.

The video can be instantly played back and re-recorded until the sender is happy with the results.

“Want to say goodnight to your kids while travelling, but you’ll be up in the air? Need to wish your dad a happy birthday, but can’t seem to catch up? Spot something interesting while you’re out and about, and want to share with your friend? Skype can help you connect with the special people in your life—even when your schedules conflict,” wrote Yasmin Khan, product manager for Skype Premium.

The results can be viewed on any platform or device running Skype, as soon as the recipient logs into the application. In case they are not logging in for a while, the message will remain stored securely on Skype servers.

Skype is becoming something of a centrepiece for Microsoft’s play in online communications space. In April, Microsoft added Skype integration to the Outlook email service, and earlier this month, the company finally married the platform with Lync, its enterprise-grade instant messaging client.

Are you a Skype champion? Take our quiz!