Microsoft has spruced up Skype for Linux, releasing a preview of the voice-over-IP (VoIP) software for the open-source platform.
The new version of the app for Linux features screen sharing and group chat, as well as a revamped UI and design.
"Now, you can share content with everyone on the call—making it even easier to bring your calls to life and collaborate on projects," Skype said in a blog post. "The new group chat feature for Skype for Linux allows you to talk with several friends at the same time."
Microsoft, which bought Skype in 2011 for $8.5 billion, reminded Linux users that all native Skype for Linux clients (version 4.3 and older) were retired in July of this year, leaving those on the platform stuck with the beta or the web version until now. "If you're running an older version, it's time to upgrade to the Skype Preview for Linux," the company said.
Skype said the aim was to completely rejig the VoIP app using the cloud. "The next generation of Skype for Linux is part of our broader strategy to rebuild Skype from the ground up with cloud technology — a more reliable platform that can scale to a much bigger audience," the company said.
You can download the preview here if you're part of the Skype Insider programme, with Microsoft asking for feedback from the Linux community before the final version of the app is released.
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