June 2008

I'm proud to announce that we have released a new major version of Skype.

Welcome to Skype 4.0. This newly released beta version offers a completely re-designed user interface with a full-screen Skype experience. Find out more on the main Skype blog.

We've released this Beta a little earlier than normal because we know it's a big change, and we want to get your thoughts. We'll spend the whole summer listening to your feedback and making changes so we can perfect the final version. Because we're releasing it early, a few little things aren't available in today's version so stay tuned for updates. Please also remember, as it's a Beta there may be a few hiccups that need correcting.

Download and try out Skype 4.0 Beta 1 for Windows.

We are keen to hear what you think about the new Skype 4.0 Beta 1 version so please give us your feedback. As well as the special feedback survey we have in place for this release, keep an eye on our community pages and discuss it there or leave reports on any issues you may find on our public issue tracker, Jira.

Technical details of the newly released baby 4.0.0.145 are:

* feature: Calling and conference calling
* feature: Instant messaging (IM) and group instant messaging (group IM)
* feature: DTMF Tones
* feature: Video calling
* feature: Contact profiles
* feature: Contact list
* feature: Conversations list
* feature: IM, conference call and group participants lists
* feature: File sending (including multi-file sending)
* feature: Shop
* feature: Directory
* feature: Audio device configuration
* feature: SMS
* feature: Welcome screen
* feature: Import contacts
* feature: See what's new
* feature: Incoming call alerts
* feature: Call phones
* feature: Menus
* feature: Contact requests
* feature: Partner tab
* feature: Automatic upgrades
* feature: Presence icons
* feature: Flashing alerts in your taskbar
* feature: Extras Manager
* feature: Detaching conversation from mainform
* Feature missing from 3.8: Call quality feedback indicator
* Feature missing from 3.8: Skype Prime
* Feature missing from 3.8: Linking of MySpaceIM with Skype and Skype accounts
* Feature missing from 3.8: Ability to turn alerts off
* Feature missing from 3.8: Accessibility (keyboard navigation and screen reader functionality)
* Feature missing from 3.8: Saving groups
* Feature missing from 3.8: History
* Feature missing from 3.8: Video in mood
* Feature missing from 3.8: View Outlook contacts in my Contact list
* Feature missing from 3.8: Call transfer
* Feature missing from 3.8: Contact groups
* Feature missing from 3.8: Creating new Shared Groups
* Feature missing from 3.8: Sending contacts
* Feature missing from 3.8: Send Money
* Feature missing from 3.8: Skypecasts
* Feature missing from 3.8: Alerts (eBay, Paypal, 411)
* Feature missing from 3.8: Public IM
* Feature missing from 3.8: Auto redial
* Feature missing from 3.8: IRC chat style
* Feature missing from 3.8: Speed dial

We released a hotfix version of Skype 3.8 for Windows today, to address the Skype File URI Security Bypass Code Execution Vulnerability issue.

With this and other problems fixed in this build, we recommend that you upgrade, just to be on the safe side!

We would like to thank everyone who has reported problems in order that we can improve the quality of Skype for everyone.

You can feedback to us on our public issue tracker Jira or discuss Skype related matters on Skype Community.

The newly released version 3.8.0.139 brings you the following goodies:

* Security fix: Skype File URI Security Bypass Code Execution Vulnerability
* Change: Internet Explorer plugin updated to version 2.2.0.181
* Change: Firefox plugin updated to version 2.2.0.87
* Change: Extras Manager updated to version 2.2.0.58
* Change: Google contacts importer removed
* bugfix: Skype occasionally crashed on Vista after disconnecting power cable from PC
* bugfix: Skype crashed on Windows 2008
* bugfix: Skype occasionally crashed when importing contacts from several Sources

So long, thanks for all the fish.