On Tuesday, Microsoft added call recording functionality to its Skype voice and video calling services, a much-requested feature that had been in demand for some time.
With the latest version of Skype for iOS and Mac, users have the ability to capture and share calls
for the first time since the ubiquitous chat service launched in 2003.
Recordings, which are cloud-based, can be initiated by clicking the “+” icon at the bottom of Skype’s user interface and selecting “Start recording.” A banner appears on the screens of all users in the voice or video chat, notifying them that the call is being recorded.
During video calls, all user video is recorded along with content from shared screens.
When a call concludes, recorded content is made available in all users’ chat timelines for 30 days. Participants can save the recording to local storage, including mobile devices where the clip will download as an MP4 file, or forward it to other Skype users.
At present, voice tracks appear to be combined automatically by Skype’s backend. Whether the service intends to offer split tracks in the future is unknown.
Owners of iOS devices can download Skype for free from the App Store, while Mac users can get the app from Skype’s website.
If you have a chance to try Skype’s new call recording feature and have any feedback to offer, please let us know what you make of it in the comments.
Via AppleInsider and Skype.com