Microsoft releases Skype for Office Word and Powerpoint, makes it easier for users to collaborate over documents.
Microsoft has released web based Skype that allows users to make calls and chats even without installing the application. The app will be available for a test period to a small number of existing users, followed by a global release in the coming weeks according to the company.
Microsoft Office Online users will see a dedicated chat button appear inside Microsoft PowerPoint and Word in the coming weeks. Users can just click that button while they are collaboratively editing a file to start chatting with everyone working on the document. The tech giant says users will be able to continue chats started in Office Online on Skype on the desktop or your smartphone even after you’ve closed the file.
"It's perfect if you prefer using the web rather than an app: perhaps you're sitting at a computer that doesn't already have Skype downloaded," Microsoft said in its statement. The U.S. software giant also said, "Or maybe you're on the go and using an Internet cafe or hotel computer whilst on vacation where you can't download Skype at all."
A chat panel will appear once a user starts a Skype chat conversation. "Since this is Skype, you can continue the conversation outside the browser since it will be available in the Skype app on your smart phones, tablets and other devices."
Microsoft acquired Skype in 2011 for $8.5 million. The tech giant recently revealed that Skype has more than 300 million users globally who make more than two billion voice and video calls online every day. The availability of the app on Office will help further increase its users base.
Also Read: Microsoft now second most valuable company in the world after Apple
Source: Microsoft Office Blog
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Silky Malhotra
Silky Malhotra loves learning about new technology, gadgets, and more. When she isn’t writing, she is usually found reading, watching Netflix, gardening, travelling, or trying out new cuisines. View Full Profile
