Skype has announced Group Video Call (GVC) service just a while ago. Thanks to Skype, I was able to test out this premium service.

First of all, here is some facts on Group Video Calling.

• Only one person needs to have the premium service perform group video call.
• The person will be the host to host the video conference.
• Users will need version 5.0 and above to do group video calling.

I am actually using Skype version 5.1.0.14

PC to PC on LAN/Wireless

My first test is the simplest. All of us are on Skype on the PC with LAN or wireless connection. The host has to just add the members into the call and their videos will pop up. Users can choose to hide or show their video.

On every try, the video/audio quality (in my opinion) is very good. However don’t expect HD quality video. The video is fluid and no lag. Of course, it depends on many factors. For example, you LAN/Wireless connection speed, the hardware and etc. BTW, we are using two different model of computers. One on Windows XP Professional and the other on Windows 7 Professional.

One good thing about the group video call is that once you hang up the call, you can easily call up the group again with a single push of a button. You can even add this group to your contact list, if you want.

PC to iPhone 4

The next test is PC to iPhone 4. This option does not allow you to do group video call. The merit about using this against FaceTime is that Skype can be used on 3G network while FaceTime will need to use the Wireless network for calling.

I tried a few times. The video is jerky and for the PC user calling the iPhone party, you may get some lag. Anyway, the Skype has indication and warning to tell you if the call quality is good or bad (on the PC).

Again, I need to stress that this test was done casually, without taking into account on the environment, location, connection speed factors and etc.

Cost

Skype is free to download and use. You can call or chat with your friends who are also on Skype. However, the Skype Group Call is a premium service.

You can buy monthly subscription or just a Day Pass. In my opinion, if you have group projects with people around the world, the subscription might be a better choice.

There is also a business version. The pricing is the same except that it has a Skype Manager. That means the person-in-charge can control the cost effectively.

Click Here to Skype Group Calling Now

Conclusion

I have been using Skype for some time already. I can see the progress made over the years in terms of voice or video quality. I am also glad that they have included the Group Video Calling.

Overall, I like the quality of the video on the group calling, based on PCs (BTW, Group Video Calling on MAC is now possible) . However, I need more testing on the iPhone Skype. I have yet to test it on iPhone to iPhone.

My suggestion to everyone is to update Skype to the latest version to enjoy Facebook integration, Group Video Calling and other features.

Again, thanks to Skype for giving me the chance to test out the Group Video Calling features.

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