All new SMS for Mac
We’re proud to announce that we’ve just released a new version of Skype for Mac. We’ve worked hard to bring even more features to you and we hope you’re going to like them.
You can now send SMS messages directly from Skype which means that you can always contact friends or family who aren’t online cheaply wherever they are – all you need is some Skype credit and your contacts mobile number and you are ready to go.
We’ve also increased the number of people you can conference call. Now you can talk with up to 9 people at once whether they are Skype or SkypeOut contacts – now there’s no excuse for not letting everyone know what you are up to, all in one go.
We’ve also made it easier to change your audio device settings for different activities within Skype using drop down selections. Hear incoming calls ring through your speakers so even if you’re not at your computer you can still hear your friend calling, then set outgoing calls to be made through your headset.
Download it now and let us know what you think of it by adding comments to this blogpost.
For those that are a little more technical, please check our the Skype for Mac Developer Site where it contains details on how to submit Bug Reports if you so wish.
Greetings:
I have tried sending SMS messages to my cell phone and it has not worked. I also tried to “verify” my cell phone in order that my number is displayed, but I never received that message, either. To test, I sent myself a SMS using my SMS Widget, and I received that message nearly immediately. Please help. Thank you.
Trying again several hours later, for some odd reason, it is working. “Never mind.” Thank you.
Hello,
I downloaded skype sms for mac beta but it wouldn’t load. any ideas why? I double clicked on the icon in my applications folder but it wouldn’t work.
Cheers
Matt
I LOVE the option of sending SMS, however I have tried sending it to a Russian mobile phone and it did not work. Very sad about it.
Please fix the DTMF (dial tones). They often do not work as expected.
I’m reasonably pleased with 2.5.0.38 but, as with many others, video quality is not equal to the rest of the application.
Those of us with an iSight webcam know that better quality is possible with iChat or Yahoo! Messenger and version 2.0.0.3 was quite good and there was no terrible lag for me.
Please consider adding a slider and possibly a resolution switch to allow the users to choose. I’m not expecting overnight improvement but I know that better video and good speed are possible at the same time.
Thanks for all of your hard work! Skype is a great application.
Ok, so I’ve just downloaded the sms beta version, and given it a go. Firstly, I have verified my mobile phone with skype, but it still shows my skype name, not my number when I send a message to the recipient. Secondly, what exactly is the point of this sms service when the recipient can’t return my message via skype? Is this correct? Is this going to change in the future? I Just don’t see the point in using skype to send an sms when i still need to have the mobile phone on my desk to read my replies!
Is it just me, or is this completely pointless?
Anyway, other than that, I must commend skype for there speed and support in developing mac versions of there software. The calls & video calls work perfectly!
Cheers guys!
my big question is: what took you so long? why should mac users wait? and is there any chance of putting a history tab on the mac one like on pcs? so i can see if my sms’s have sent… without going through a whole website and that…
thanks, but next time look after us first eh! there’s a beer in it if youse do!
> but it still shows my skype name, not my number when I send a message to the
> recipient
This a known issue to Skype team. It will be supported in the final version. However, it would have been wise to document this, and not to let user verify their telephone number when the function is not ready yet. But wait for the final release and it will work, as it already does on Skype for Windows 2.5 final.
> Secondly, what exactly is the point of this sms service when the recipient
> can’t return my message via skype? Is this correct?
On the one hand, I understand your point as a user. However, some understanding of how telecommunication work would have helpped you not to get dissapointed. To get and SMS back you need a *valid* telephone number which operator can use to reply to the SMS. So, if you do not want to use a mobile phone to receive an SMS, you need to buy a SkypeIn number, which will hopefully support not only call in but also SMS in. There are some providors who enable users to send SMS to skype user: http://www.netsms.ch/skype/ http://www.connectotel.com/sms/skype.html. Again, everyone has a mobile so it is more convenient to wait until Skype 2.5 is final for Mac.
Keep being optimistic
Cheers,
ehfStandTall
Hi Ryan,
Wow, I’m really enjoying the new version of Skype for Mac. Its so awesome being able to SMS my friends about going snowboarding and stuff. But I do have one question for you in particular, how would I go about creating a half man, half monkey?
I will second the call above to fix the DTMF tones. They just do not work reliably… this makes SkypeOut useless for calling the large number of companies who have automated systems that have to be navigated using DTMF tones before you get to speak to a real person.
Will it be possible to SMS to my skype-in number ? Maybe not now – maybe sometime in the future ? (I have a London skype in number)
Thank you for the “New” beta for Mac. The sound is better, the SMS is really handy and the whole program just seems to work better. I’m not quite sure what the problem is with everyone. This is a “free” download and the Skype tec’s actually work out problems and answer real questions.
I’m looking forward to your next upgrade. Thanks a lot.
The ringing option is not really useful for me, because even if my usb headset is connected I can have the call ringing in my speakers if I select in the sound preferences the line-out as an output (speakers getting sound from line-out), while in skype preferences the input and output can continue to be my usb headset. It works.
I don’t understand how can it be helpful for users who leave a regular earphone headset plugged in the line-out. If they have speakers I’m sure they have to be connected throught the line-out, so it’s either the headset or the speakers connected right? You won’t miss a call that way…
The other option is when people is using an external soundcard to deliver sound to speakers. And if that’s the case, the option is not really needed because it can be done already without showing it in skype prefs as I said before using mac’s sound preferences. I don’t know if I explain myself.
I guess it’s just a way of doing it easily without having knowlegde of sound routing?
Anyway I really appreaciate the sms option. And I hope it gets better with the sender id issue. Keep un the good work!
Am thoroughly enjoying the SMS features and have already gone through a good $16AUD of recharge using them, hehe. Have validated my mobile number but it still seems to send it from my Skype name and receivers are not able to respond. It is still cheaper than any other web-based sms service I’ve come across, and I enjoy using Skype as both my home phone as well as to send texts.
Haven’t used the webcam feature yet, so can’t comment on that (as I am on a Powerbook G4 like some people who have expressed concern).
Any thoughts on when we are getting Skypecasts and some of the other Windows-only features for Mac?
I want a 3.0 Beta… Please!? I want to manage a public chat but can’t, because I use a Mac…
Hello,
everytime I try to use the video function on my g3 700 with hercules deluxe webcam (and maccam driver), skype 2.0.0.6 and 2.5 crash. Has anynody an idea what i could do against that problem?
Please please please fix the DTMF problems – I can’t dial in to voice mail, or teleconferencing systems like Raindance without this. This would increase my use of Skype hugely!
SMS facilty is great – especially for keeping contact with traveling friends. Can we send photos yet?
Hey everyone, just a heads up that we’ve updated the beta today with a new version (2.5.0.63). It’s still the same download link, but has plenty of fixes/improvements. To note, we’ve increased the resolution of Video on (faster) G4 machines to that of Intel and G5 machines. Enjoy!
- Ryan.
And “faster” is equal to what? My 800MHz G4 box handled the old video resolution just fine.
You really don’t want to make it an option do you? Why’s that?
Thanks to all the Mac users that have posted. I’ll stick to the 2.0.0.6 release until I see more people raving the 2.5 release. They have a valid point! (and Skype, please keep-up the good work! I’ve been very pleased with my 2.0.0.6 release)
2.5 doesn’t seem very good. The video is grainy, choppy and slow. Ichat seems a far superior program for video chat – it even handles the full-duplex on open microphones with far more sophistication than Skype can. With every upgrade, Skype for Mac continues to dissapoint. Maybe given enough time, they will get it right.
Audio calls and telephony on skype are superb. It appears that video is a cheap afterthought, a bone to toss to the most vocal users. I wish you had not caved to public demand and kept working on it until you got it right. When an AOL product is lapping you in sophistication and quality, it’s time to be very embarrassed.
Also, a specific question – I purchased the “Skype Certified” logitech USB headset. Whenever I plug it in or start Skype, Skype refuses to use the headset, prefering the internal laptop mic and speakers. Is this what it takes to be Skype certified?
Ok I’m done with my complaints. I do like Skype, don’t get me wrong, but it’s only good at one thing – very inexpensive international voice calls.
You guys are harsh! I’m on a 1.0GHz G4… Apparently that’s 0.25GHz too slow! Please… Give us the option! I don’t care if I supposedly am using 80% of my processor when doing video calling… I want the better quality!
Otherwise, great work! I’m really looking forward to a 3.0 Beta though which lets me access group chats!
Hi
i’d like to give my sisters a webcam for xmas. they have macs (i don’t know which, but at least 3-4 years old) but i can’t afford two Isights.
i am moving to france, from the u.s., soon, so it’ll be used mainly for video calls. I’d prefer to use Skype (though the reviews of the latest version aren’t stellar).
i don’t want it to be a big hassle for them– they aren’t real tech saavy. That’s the beauty of Macs(which god i hope i can afford soon so i can throw this pc out the window).
I have some Logitech QuickCam Pro 5000s i bought, but it sounds like it could be a pain to set up.
I’d like advice on:
1. the best 3rd party camera to use
2. step-by-step instructions on how to set it up that i can give them along with the camera
3. how it and skype perform on international video calls.
thanks!
happy holidays
j
I believe the QuickCam Pro 5000s is directly supported. I have its predecessor, the 4000. Check http://www.logitech.com .
All they should need to do is plug it in and then check it out under Skype Preferences.
Skype tells that if you realize a call each 60 days, the crédit won’t be eliminate. But, if you don’t call anybody but you send SMS, what happens to you credit? thank you
About using an old webcam:
Your old ones should work if you download “macam” from sourceforge. I am using a really old one, made by an obscure company and it works great after downloading that program.
Do a search for it on Google. As your sisters do not seem to be tech savvy, they won’t know the difference between a new one and an old one anyway!!
Gavin
Instead of buying and connecting a webcam I have connected my DV CAM via firewire and it shows up fine in Skype 2.0.6. Will the audio come in via firewire as well? (I suspect I’ll have to plug a separate mike into my G5′s line in.) Thanks. Michael
Hmm. Will we ever get hotkeys (that work in fullscreen apps, for example)?
stephanect,
It’s 180 days actually, and it looks like SMS also extends the expiry date.
For example I’ve sent an SMS on December 27 while my last call was made on December 17 and my balance expires on June 27, 2007…
You don’t have to worry about the expiry date… The best thing is if you check it for yourself on https://secure.skype.com/store/myaccount/overview.html
Regards,
Péter
Hi Ryan,
When may we expect the non-Beta 2.5 for Mac? I’ve just read the fixes/improvements for 2.5.0.63, and found that you’ve fixed one of my oldest problems: We use two accounts on my Mac but Skype does not seem to remember the other account… I’m pretty new to Mac and I thought I did something wrong… Now I know it was just a bug…
Maybe you could help me to solve my other problem: How do I attach a Skype button to my signature file? I use Mail, and I try to follow the description on the website but the text I attach does not want to turn into a lovely green button…
Regards,
Péter
Since i’ve updated my Skype to 2.5 beta, Skype didn’t ring anymore. I was looking forward to be able to switch between my headphones and the speakers, but instead non of them make any noise. Calling people is still posible, but any other sounds? No.
Was thinking of Signing Up by Jan 18th but Now my Skye Browser account here says that I can’t make any Calls so I’m Wondering if this is an accidental result of the Mac Beta version here that I’ve been trying Out ? This type of action sure makes Users like me nervous to Sign Up when unexpected happenings happen which is like the Service being sidcontinued after we Sign Up 7 Send $ Cash money & expect to have Service continue for a year if we Send $ Cash before the end of the month to save on a years sign up Credit Fee for Canada & USA only…
Hello! Skype is improving, greatly! I’d like to know when can we expect you to develop and release new versions (both for PC and Mac users) at the same time? Why it takes the team so long to write the Mac Skype?
For example, new 3.0 Skype for PC has many great features, and I emphasise the PUBLIC CHAT feature that we Apple users cannot nor join or start!
I agree with oljadesic!
Additional problem is that Win users seem to have different emoticons available.
It often happens that my gf sends me (Win) an emoticon which is unknown in my Mac Skype version.
Both having the latest version of Skype.
Has anyone tried using with satellite? I am having problem with Video..any Help?
can we type and send sms’s in languages other than English?
Pretty hacked off here – just had a chance to try the new 2.5.0.63 beta, which supposedly supports higher resolution for my G4 (1.5GHz 12″ PB G4)…AND IT STILL DOESN’T WORK! Now I’m torn, because I want to send SMS messages, but not since 2.0.0.6 has the video quality been any good.
Make it an option, PLEASE! Why is this so hard to do?
HI,
I am really liking Skype, it’s what keeps my long distance relationship going. I was wondering when the option of showing my mobile number on outgoing texts would start working. Thanks. Ronald
Gosh, this was posted in November. Of 2006. Yeah.
Gee wiz, can’t you give us a bit more of an update? We are midway through January of 2007.
Oh, and, BETA 3.0 would be very nice. Just hinting.
The ability to change inbound microphone volume for individual callers would be nice. It’s on the windows version, but not the mac.
Hi – I am a physician from the US doing medical work in Ethiopia and Israel. I have an Israeli based cell phone and for whatever reason am unable to verify my number. I have tried every permutation of international calling numbers possible and can’t understand what the problem is. I belive it is supposed to be +921(cell code and then number). Otherwise, I am very impressed with the recent upgrade. Thanks for the help.
To the person asking about foreign languages, I’ve been texting in Russian and it works fine. Also the reply-to to my phone worked fine after validating it (had to switch the SMS card into a different phone that could read cyrillic characters though, but that ain’t Skype’s fault). Really this service is outstanding.
Hi,
I love the Beta 2.5.063 but when I send sms messages to a T-Mobile number in the States, my cell number doesn’t show – it shows some random 5 digit number. When I txt within Germany it works fine and my number shows as the reply-to. Is this a carrier related issue? Help! I need this to work. Thanks!
Hi Divinetta,
If you take a look at this page you’ll see that sending numbers in the US will not appear to come from your cell/mobile/handy number. (Scroll right down to the bottom)
- Ryan.
MAC’s SPEAKERS WILL NOT RING WHILST LOGITECH USB 350 HEADSET IS PLUGGED IN. I have downloaded Beta 2.5.0.63 three times to an eMacG4/1GHZ running OS 10.3.9 and there is no 3 rd option under Prefs/Audio to enable this. To check I downloaded 2.0.0.6 to a Power Mac G3/400 running OS 10.4.8 and still no 3rd option to allow the PC speakers to ring whilst the headset is plugged in. The only options displayed are for ‘Audio Output” and “Audio Input” but not “Ringing”. I find this very strange. Especially Beta 2.5.0.63 not having the 3rd option. It makes detecting incoming calls whilst not wearing the headset impossible. This despite Ryan downloading the Beta and being able to see the 3rd option…as shown in the announcement above. I wonder if this is caused in the installation of the Skype icon after a download into Applications. Do you drag the Skype Icon in the big blue “Window” or the Skype icon on the Desktop? The instructions are not crystal clear. 22 Jan 2007.
I’m bored with this beta… Anyone want to bet when 3.0 Beta is going to come out? My guess is February 20.
Just downloaded the new Beta for Mac with SMS capability, great stuff, about time! Just one request: I am a Navigator, often working ofshore for prolonged periods and although I have hi-speed internet, i am often left without cell phone coverage for days/weeks at a time. Would be great if there was a way for friends & family to reply to my SMS messages direct to my online skype account, maybe through Skypein? If there is a way, could someone please let me know!
Many thanks