Skype grid view grows to twelve people in video calls
Your group calls just got room for a few more with Skype's latest update.
What you need to know
- Skype can now show up to twelve people at once in a grid during video calls.
- The same update also brings custom backdrop support to Skype on Windows, Mac, Linux, and the web.
- The update brings Skype to version 8.62, which is available now.
Skype just gained some handy new features across all platforms. The Windows, Mac, Linux, and Web versions of Skype just gained backdrop options and every version now lets you see twelve people in a grid view (previously the limit was nine). The features roll out in Skype version 8.62 which is available now.
The Windows, Mac, Linux, and Web versions now let you choose from predefined backgrounds that are included within the app. You can also upload your own backgrounds to personalize calls.
Here is the complete changelog for Skype 8.62 as shared by Microsoft:
Skype for Windows, Mac, Linux, and Web
- Choose your backdrop: You can now choose one of our predefined backgrounds for video calls, in addition to uploading your own. Learn how to customize your background on Skype.
- The more the merrier: You can now see more of your friends than ever in a video call; up to twelve in the new grid view. Learn more about views in Skype video calls.
- Bug fixes and stability improvements. We've improved message sync when some conversations weren't updating, as well as made a few general improvements.
Skype for Android, iPhone, and iPad
- The more the merrier: You can now see more of your friends than ever in a video call; up to eight on your phone and up to nine on your tablet. Learn more about views in Skype video calls.
- Bug fixes and stability improvements. We've improved message sync when some conversations weren't updating, as well as made a few general improvements.
The ability to view more people on a screen at once should make group calls easier and more sociable. With more people working from home, video calls are on the rise on just about every platform.
Chat from anywhere
Versatile messaging
Skype has apps on every platform and supports every kind of communication, including text, voice, and video.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.