Microsoft is testing a new feature that integrates video conferencing functionality directly into its Windows 10 operating system. Available with Windows 20211 Preview 10, the feature adds an icon to the taskbar from which users can start or join a video conference through Skype's Meet Now function. Meet Now allows Skype users to create "collaboration spaces" that participants can access via a single link, whether or not they have a Skype account. Once inside, users can chat with text messages or initiate voice and video calls. Clicking on the new icon will activate the native Skype application or the online client of the service.
Windows 10 video conferencing
Video conferencing platforms have seen a huge surge in popularity since the beginning of the year, thanks to the coronavirus pandemic and the rise of remote work. Zoom, in particular, has been a clear beneficiary of the pandemic, with national shutdowns serving to elevate the platform to cult status. As a result, the company's revenue increased 355% in the second quarter to a total of $663,5 million. It now has about 370.200 clients with more than 10 employees, an increase of about 458% over last year. By simplifying the process of creating and participating in video conferences, Microsoft hopes the new feature in Windows 10 will help reduce Zoom from its privileged position. However, the decision to integrate Skype functionality into Windows 10 is somewhat of a surprise, given that the company has made Microsoft Teams its primary platform for video conferencing and collaboration since the start of the pandemic. Skype itself will be integrated into Teams shortly, and Skype for Business Online will be fully retired on July 31, 2021. Since September of last year, for example, new Microsoft 365 customers have been integrated directly into Teams. . Microsoft has yet to respond to our request for clarification on whether Windows 10's new Skype feature will be replaced with a Teams equivalent at a later date. Users who are desperate to experience the new feature can join the Windows Insider Dev Channel, which gives members access to the latest versions of Windows 10. As with other features rolled out on the Dev Channel, you may the new video conferencing tool will never be included in a full public release. Through a computer that sounds