14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has rolled out a new update for the Linux flavor of its Skype client, bringing it to version 1.12, but still keeping it in the alpha development stage for the time being.
In other words, while the Skype client for Linux is improving, the alpha flag means that Microsoft is still working on refining the general performance and adding new features, so don’t be too surprised if you come across bugs or other issues in the application.
According to the official changelog, this update is just a minor release, and brings only three worthy changes, including improved authentication process with switch to Microsoft Account options.
Additionally, Skype 1.12 for Linux enables hostless group calling, which means that if you’re part of a group call and the host leaves, the conversation can continue without any interruption.
And last but not least, Microsoft says that it was specifically focused on bug fixing and improving performance, so many of the bugs that you’ve previously found in the Skype client should no longer be there.
The Skype for Linux effort
On the other hand, development of the Skype client for Linux advances at a rather slow pace, and while nobody can deny that the app is getting better, new releases are mostly focused on bug fixes and performance improvements. New features and highly-requested improvements are still in the works for the time being, so it could take a while until Skype evolves more substantially on Linux.
At the same time, Microsoft keeps asking for feedback, trying to adopt a strategy similar to the one for Windows 10, which was developed with help from insiders who tested early builds of the operating system. Redmond emphasizes that Linux users should do the same, and feedback is absolutely mandatory for an improved Linux client.
Another new release is expected to take place in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for even more updates from the Skype team. In the meantime, make sure you try out this version and report any bugs you come across.