Skype now supports emergency calls in the US
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Skype has received a new update. Currently, the most recent version of Skype is 8.80, and along with some bug fixes and stability improvements, Microsoft has introduced a few new features and modifications to Skype.
Along with a bunch of smaller improvements to the platform, Microsoft has added the ability to call 911 in the US using Skype. Not only that, but Skype can now also share your location with emergency operators. The share location option is disabled by default, but you may activate it in the app’s privacy settings if you like.
Let’s hope Skype doesn’t end up like Microsoft Teams. Last year, a bug in the Teams app rendered users unable to call emergency services due to the software interfering with the OS’s ability to choose a telephony client, blocking the call altogether.
A Pixel user had reported that when they tried to call 911, their phone froze, and the call was unsuccessful; only because the user had access to a landline did they manage to get help. Good thing Microsoft and Google issued a fix for the problem caused by Microsoft in Android 10 and later.
Along with the ability to make emergency calls, Skype now also offers various reactions during calls if you are on Windows, Mac, Linux, or Web. Also, with the latest update, you can zoom in on a shared screen during a meeting on computers and mobile devices. So, now you can better express yourself in a video call, and you will no longer need to squint your eyes in order to see what is presented during a meeting. Microsoft has also increased the time limit on voice messages from 2 minutes to 5 minutes.
Questions & Answers
Q.What new safety features has Microsoft introduced in the latest Skype update?
What new safety features has Microsoft introduced in the latest Skype update?
The recent update allows Skype users in the US to call 911 directly from the app. Also, users now have the option to share their location with emergency operators, though this feature needs to be manually enabled in the app's privacy settings.
Q.Which operating systems and devices support the new features for reacting during calls and zooming on shared screens?
Which operating systems and devices support the new features for reacting during calls and zooming on shared screens?
The ability to add reactions during calls is available on Windows, Mac, Linux, or Web platforms. The new function to zoom in on a shared screen during meetings is supported across both computer and mobile devices.
Q.Has the maximum length for voice messages in Skype been altered with this update?
Has the maximum length for voice messages in Skype been altered with this update?
Yes, with the latest update, Microsoft has extended the time limit for voice messages within Skype. The previous maximum duration of two minutes has now been increased to five minutes, allowing for longer audio communications.
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