Skype 5.0: Facebook, Group Video Calls & More

Skype 5.0 has been released for Windows users, and the biggest change is in its integration with Facebook.  Taking advantage of Facebook Connect, the updated VoIP software pulls the Facebook news feed into the Skype app – as well as allowing you to post updates, comment and like statuses – together with calling or SMSing friends either on their home, mobile or Skype numbers.

Also included is trial access to the group video calling beta, which allows for up to 10 participants to be involved and automatically shifts the focus of the display depending on which person is currently talking.  Finally, there's automatic call recovery, which reconnects dropped calls close to seamlessly.

UI changes, a voice and video quality manager and easier access to things like screen sharing and IM round out the new release.  It's available to download now.