Why You Need to Upgrade to Skype for Windows 3.2
and, if on 3.2, to the latest build.
As mentioned in a previous post during the April/May beta period for Skype 3.2, Skype has introduced some new sound engine technology into the Skype for Windows client. As one example discussed in the post reference above, its echo cancellation feature allows you to make Skype calls using a laptop's inherent mic and speakers without a headset. It involves, amongst other features:
- Skype's own audio codec
- Skype improved conference mixer
- Skype Jitter Buffer and concealment
- Skype audio preprocessing components.
But Skype has also upgraded their backend for Skypecasts earlier this week and at this time, you need to have Skype for Windows 3.2 to participate in Skypecasts. (Note that the revamped Skypecasts feature can also work with Skype for Mac 2.6 once they fix a bug.) To quote Villu Arak (who has taken over Jaanus' role in communicating with the outside world):
Why do all that? As of June 13, older versions will simply no longer be compatible with Skypecasts. Sounds like a bummer, but it’s actually a good thing. The whole Skypecast experience will be better. And upgrading — even just for the hell of it — should make everyone feel good and fashionable anyway..
So it's "sound advice" to upgrade to Skype 3.2. Actually it's even more sound to upgrade to the latest build 163 released two days ago; alternatively access the upgrade via "Help | Check for Upgrades". That appears to fix also a minor crashing bug when participating in Group Chats amongst other small but annoying issues.
With each new release, Skype’s engineers improve sound and video quality. And because we’ve replaced our audio engine in our most recent releases — it’s now fully built in-house — it’s worth bearing in mind that you may run into some bumps when a call is placed from an older version of Skype to newer versions.
And all I can say to "it's now fully built in-house" is </end GIPS sound engine>.
Tags: Skype audio, GIPS Sound Engine, Skype for Windows, Skypecasts
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Comments
I will say becareful about it. The sound is good. However, a lot of plugin does not work, ie, game, etc. Because they still check for version 3.1
Posted by: TK | June 16, 2007 09:35 AM
just downloaded 3.2 Have been skype user for 2 yrs I use it in Mexico and it works fine..Where I am now am, on a verizon card ,Old system did not work up here in N.Ca. 3.2 I hear them but theyhear me very well
Posted by: Butch | June 16, 2007 03:11 PM
4.1 Permission to utilize Your computer. In order to receive the benefits provided by the Skype Software, You hereby grant permission for the Skype Software to utilize the processor and bandwidth of Your computer for the limited purpose of facilitating the communication between Skype Software users.
4.2 Protection of Your computer (resources). You understand that the Skype Software will use its commercially reasonable efforts to protect the privacy and integrity of Your computer resources and Your communication, however, You acknowledge and agree that Skype cannot give any warranties in this respect.
Got that?
such a shame.
Posted by: Pedro | June 17, 2007 06:24 PM
I regret using this latest version. becouse it hangs my computer. And plus: I think skype is getting too fancy. I want the right to use a legacy version on my computer otherwise I´m planning to change software. oops i forgot. I´m not as free as i think becouse skype does not allow other softwares to interact with skype users. But time will tell. I want to keep it simple. But skype wants not!
and this license agreement makes me chill.
4.1 Permission to utilize Your computer. In order to receive the benefits provided by the Skype Software, You hereby grant permission for the Skype Software to utilize the processor and bandwidth of Your computer for the limited purpose of facilitating the communication between Skype Software users.
4.2 Protection of Your computer (resources). You understand that the Skype Software will use its commercially reasonable efforts to protect the privacy and integrity of Your computer resources and Your communication, however, You acknowledge and agree that Skype cannot give any warranties in this respect.
Got that?
such a shame.
Posted by: Pedro | June 17, 2007 06:30 PM
Pedro, you don't understand. The processor and bandwith time are used to run the Skype network, this is what keeps Skype costs low for everybody and the network running smoothly. What is really sad? You don't even understand how little bandwidth and CPU type Skype really uses. While your at it, look up the term "Tin Foil Hat" and make one for yourself.
Posted by: Jonah | June 27, 2007 02:19 AM