Skype vs Vonage

2021. Ericsson to acquire cloud communications company Vonage for $6.2B



Ericsson, an international networking company, has made the strategic decision to embrace modernization by acquiring cloud communications company


2020. Skype has a Zoom-like video call function called 'Meet Now'



Skype made a notable comeback by reminding the world about its presence through a tweet. Surprisingly, Skype offers a video chat feature similar to Zoom, known as Meet Now, which doesn't necessitate having a Skype account or the app. With Skype Meet Now, users can generate a meeting URL to share with participants. While it is user-friendly on the web-based client, selecting the option to open the meeting in the Skype app may encounter issues. This brings us to the observation that Skype seems to have missed out on the surge in popularity of video calling platforms.


2019. Skype added features for work with important messages



Skype primarily serves as a platform for video communication, but it also aims to establish itself as a versatile messaging application. While competing with established players like WhatsApp and Viber may seem challenging, Skype is exploring new opportunities. In its latest update, the developers introduced some unconventional features for a messaging app: drafts and bookmarks. Drafts enable users to save partially composed messages, allowing them to return to them later and complete them. Bookmarks, on the other hand, allow users to save received messages for quick retrieval at a later time. These features specifically target important messages, suggesting that Skype may be seeking to carve out a new niche that falls between traditional messengers and email. Such functionality could prove valuable for business users.


2019. Skype launched screen sharing on iOS and Android


Skype has recently announced an update to its mobile application, introducing a screen sharing feature for both iOS and Android users during calls. This functionality offers various practical applications, such as sharing presentations or providing remote technical assistance. To access this feature, Skype users can simply tap the newly added "..." (more) menu within the app, where other recently launched features like call recording and subtitles can also be found. Additionally, this mobile release of Skype includes a redesigned calling screen that enables users to dismiss call controls with a single tap. Tapping again removes all controls, allowing the video call itself to take center stage, while another tap brings back all the controls.


2019. Skype can now blur the background during video calls



Skype has introduced a new feature that is likely to enhance its appeal to users. This feature is the screen-blurring functionality, designed to conceal any untidy or unwanted background details during a call. It allows users to hide their messy rooms or other elements they prefer not to display to the other party on the call. Skype stated that this feature utilizes artificial intelligence to maintain the caller as the main focus, similar to the blurring feature added to Microsoft Teams in the previous year. Moreover, it can detect features such as hair, hands, and arms. The feature is gradually being rolled out to Skype for desktop, web, and mobile platforms, although it may not be compatible with all devices at present. Users can enable it either in Skype's settings or by accessing the video call button within the service.


2018. Skype and PowerPoint got real-time subtitles


PowerPoint and Skype have announced the upcoming introduction of real-time captions and subtitles in 2019. This new feature is designed to provide accessibility for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, enabling them to read the spoken words during PowerPoint presentations or video calls on Skype. Moreover, the subtitles offer the capability to include presentation translations. The live captions and subtitles will support 12 spoken languages and display on-screen in over 60 different languages. Presenters will have the ability to customize the appearance of the subtitles to align with their presentation's visual style, and the speech recognition technology will adapt to provide more accurate terminology based on the context. In Skype, the subtitles will be available during one-to-one video calls and will automatically scroll on the screen. Microsoft has also mentioned that they are working on providing additional viewing options, including the ability to scroll through the captions in a side window.


2018. Vonage acquired cloud-based contact center startup NewVoiceMedia



Vonage, a cloud-based unified communications provider, has completed the acquisition of NewVoiceMedia, a UK startup specializing in cloud-based contact center solutions, for a cash sum of $350 million. This strategic move by Vonage aims to expand its service offerings and increase profit margins across a broader range of value-added IP services. Currently, Vonage provides office phone systems, marketing automation, an existing call center solution, as well as MPLS and other IP services. With the integration of NewVoiceMedia's platform, Vonage will have enhanced capabilities to establish deeper connections with software providers such as Salesforce. This integration is vital to Vonage's approach in selling its services to potential customers. NewVoiceMedia is recognized by Vonage as the largest privately-owned, pure-play, cloud contact center company globally. It boasts approximately 700 customers, primarily consisting of mid- to large-sized enterprises, including prominent names like Adobe, Siemens, Time Inc., FundingCircle, and Rapid7.


2018. Skype rolls back its unwanted redesign



Last year, Skype underwent a vibrant makeover, taking inspiration from Snapchat and incorporating its own version of "stories." However, the redesign faced significant criticism. Microsoft has now acknowledged that the changes did not resonate with users and have decided to adopt a simpler navigation model. In the mobile app, there are only three buttons at the bottom: Chats, Calls, and Contacts, while Highlights and Capture have been removed. The desktop version of Skype has also undergone changes, with Chats, Calls, Contacts, and Notifications now positioned at the top left of the window, aimed at facilitating familiarity for long-time Skype users. Moreover, the app's excessive use of color has been toned down, and a Skype "Classic" blue theme has been introduced, optimized for contrast and readability. These adjustments aim to improve the user experience and address the feedback received from the community.


2018. Skype 8.0 adds HD video, encryption & call recording



Microsoft is introducing Skype 8.0 version for desktop, which brings several new features and enhancements. Users can now enjoy high-definition (1080p) video calls, supporting up to 24 participants, providing a more immersive communication experience. Additionally, the update includes the introduction of @mentions, inspired by Twitter, allowing users to easily direct their messages to specific individuals in group conversations. In the coming months, Skype will also introduce end-to-end encryption for audio calls, text messages, and shared files like images, audio, and video. This enhanced security feature will utilize the industry-standard Signal Protocol, ensuring that the communication remains confidential and protected. Furthermore, messages and notifications from these encrypted conversations will be hidden in the chat list to maintain privacy. Skype is also introducing a built-in call recording feature, enabling users to record their calls directly in the cloud. It's worth noting that all participants in the call will be notified when a call is being recorded, promoting privacy and complying with legal requirements. These new updates aim to enhance the overall Skype experience, providing users with improved video quality, privacy features, and convenient call recording capabilities.


2018. Skype adds new feature for recording video calls



Microsoft has introduced a new feature called "Skype for Content Creators," which enables desktop users to make and record calls using the Skype desktop software. These recorded calls can then be streamed live or imported into other applications for further editing before being published. This feature is particularly beneficial for digital broadcasters, streamers, and vloggers as it eliminates the need for expensive studio equipment when creating videos, podcasts, or live streams. While it is especially useful for recording video chats with remote guests, such as in a weekly call-in show, it can also be utilized for live streaming calls on other platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube.