14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft keeps improving Skype for Linux, and recently the company has released a new version that finally enables group video called.
Still part of the beta program, Skype for Linux is improving rather slowly, with Microsoft often criticized for not bringing the Linux client in line with the Windows sibling faster. But Microsoft claims it needs more time to refine the new app and implement features, so beta versions gradually get new functionality.
This is the case of Skype 5.4, a new version that comes with group video calling, which has been one of the most requested features for the Linux client. Additionally, it uses Electron 1.7.4 for performance and security improvements and fixes the Skype Update repository keys.
Still a beta
While the addition of new features is definitely good news, a growing number of Linux users point to bugs that don’t seem to be developed by the Skype team, despite being reported a long time ago. User JSV_450 details his experience with Skype clients for Linux on Microsoft’s Community forums:
“I installed 5.4.0.1, however there was little change. It did initiate a call much faster, which was a pleasent surprise. Voip is still not functional, and most of the requests found in this discussion have yet to be addressed. For incoming calls voip, I need to use Skype for Android. For outgoing voip calls I am still using Skype for Linux 4.3, since 5.3 and 5.4 are still unusable.”
And of course, there are also feature requests that Microsoft is said to be considering, including contact renaming and screen sharing, both of which are at the top of the list for a growing number of users.
In the meantime, you can try out Skype 5.4 for Linux and make sure you send your feedback to the company should you really want the client to be improved in future updates.