Skype released the beta version of Skype 2.5, the newest edition of its software that allows anyone with an Internet connection to make free worldwide voice and video calls.

As part of the new software enhancements, registration is simplified for new Skype customers and dialling traditional phone numbers is more intuitive, making calls to landlines or cell phones anywhere in the world easy and affordable.  Features such as improved conference calling offer excellent voice quality and make it a natural way to stay in touch. Simple prompts while Skyping allow users to adjust how they manage their internet connection to ensure they have the best possible call quality. Other new functionality includes built-in, localized payment options, now in over 15 currencies.

Skype 2.5 Beta Features

• Easy Dialing - instead of having to remember specific country codes, easily call landlines or cell phones worldwide by selecting the country of choice from a dropdown menu.
• Send Short Message Service (SMS) Messages–send a one-way SMS message to any mobile phone number in the world by selecting a SkypeOut contact, entering a mobile phone number or selecting a Skype contact's mobile phone number in their profile.
• View Outlook Contacts–quickly view Outlook contacts in Skype and call directly using SkypeOut, a call from Skype to traditional landlines or cell phones.
• Improved Conference Calling–instantly see who is talking on a conference call as the participant's picture flashes when they begin to speak.
• Shared Contact Groups–easily share contacts with friends and family and help them connect with other people; bring groups together with just one click of a button to start a group chat or conference call.
• Simplified Registration–create Skype accounts in one simple step.
• Automatic Updates–receive an automatic prompt to download the latest Skype software any time the product is upgraded.
• Call Quality Management–lets users adjust and manage their computer environment and internet connection to ensure they have the best possible call quality.