Skype Now Lets Anyone Join A Chat Via Direct Links

Skype has announced a small change that it promises will make big waves in how Skype users go about using the software — a link that, when shared, invites anyone who receives it to join in on a Skype chat, even if it is sent through something other than Skype. That means you can drop the link into a chat on Facebook Messenger, for example; it gets friends on board with your current Skype chatting session, regardless of whether they have a Skype account.

You can see an example of how this works in the video below — it's pretty straight-forward, and best of all, the new feature is rolling out now. Thanks to Skype for Web, those invited can join in on the chat even if they don't have the Skype application downloaded — they'll just join in as a guest from their PC.

These guests will be able to join in on video conversations, as well as instant messaging and voice calls. In addition, the guests don't require a Skype account, making it as close to a no-barrier feature as you can get. Those with Skype for Windows, Mac, and the Web in the US and UK have access to the feature.

Those with a Skype name and the mobile app can join in on conversations through the links on iOS and Android. The feature will be rolling out to users located elsewhere around the globe over the next couple weeks, says Skype, as well as the ability to share direct links from smartphones and tablets. When exactly that functionality will arrive wasn't detailed.

SOURCE: Skype