Microsoft has rolled out its long-awaited Video Messages service for Skype. As the feature debuts on iOS, Android and Mac devices, users will be allowed to send video messages in addition to live-talk. With Video Messages, users can now send up to three minutes of video to each other; however, the service won't be available for Window's users initially.

The feature uses the front-facing camera on Android and iOS devices with an option to change to the rear-facing camera. Users will be able to send up to three minutes of video to their contacts who are either online or offline. The video message will be delivered in the chat part of Skype. The service works very much the same on Mac devices as well; however, Mac has an additional option of downloading the video messages.

If you are using Skype for Windows or Skype for Windows Phone, you will still receive the messages, but with a link to view them online. Commenting on the Windows availability of the feature, a Skype spokesperson said, "We're pleased that there's interest for Video Messaging to come to Skype for Windows and Skype for Windows 8" and "We'll let you know when we expand the service to the platform," The Verge reported.

Testing the service, The Verge reported that the service works on all the above-said platforms and it appears to sync the video messages as users expect. "If you want to download the messages on the Mac side, they're available in MP4 format," the report said.

It should be noted that the entire service does not come free as the service is part of Skype premium. After 20 free video messages, users will be required to subscribe to Skype premium at a rate of $4.99 a month to continue using the feature.

The update will be rolled out in a day in the U.S. and UK and the feature will be available to people of other countries if it generates enough interest. The arrival of Video Messages feature to Windows won't be too far away as its expected that the service will be made available possibly by the end of April.

© Copyright 2024 Mobile & Apps, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.