Skype for Outlook.com helps you connect with your Skype friends right from your Outlook.com inbox. All you need to have in place is a plugin for browsers such as Internet Explorer, Chrome, or Firefox which enables the integration. So, to enjoy the features of the Skype web plugin in Outlook.com, you need to link your Skype and Microsoft accounts first.
If you haven’t done it yet, don’t worry, you can link your accounts during the installation of the Skype web plugin. In this post, we will learn the method of expanding your Outlook with Skype.
Expand Outlook.com with Skype
Download Skype web browser plugin. It works with Internet Explorer 8 and higher, Chrome 19 and higher, Firefox 12 and higher. You have to do the following,
Link the Microsoft Account you use to sign in to Outlook.com with a Skype account. If you already have the two linked, skip ahead to the instant message section. You’ll be requested to download and install the plugin when you need it to make a call.
Click or tap the messaging icon.
Skype contacts in the messaging pane.
A popup should appear prompting you to install the Skype plugin. Click Get started and follow the instructions on screen to install it.
There are two easy ways to install the Skype web plugin,
- Install from the Outlook.com Messaging panel
- At the start of receiving a Skype call
If you already have a Skype account, select I have a Skype account and sign in to Skype to link your Skype and Microsoft accounts. If not, you’ll be requested to link the Microsoft account with Skype account. For doing so, select No, I’m new to Skype. You’ll join Skype by signing in with your Microsoft account. The on-screen instructions will guide you to complete the process.
Upon completing the process, you will be able to link your Skype and Microsoft accounts and do the following things
- Instant message, voice and video call your Messenger buddies and Outlook.com contacts for free with the Skype web plugin.
- Bring your Skype contacts into Outlook.com.
Once complete, you’ll receive the “Setup is complete” message. Simply click Close and start enjoying free Skype calls and instant messaging. Message support is available for your Facebook and Google contacts from Outlook.com but calling is only supported with Windows Live Messenger and Skype contacts.
Make audio, video calls without leaving your email
Open Outlook.com and click the messaging icon to open the messaging pane.
Enter your friend’s name in the Start new conversation box and select the name from the drop down.
Next, click or tap either the video or audio call buttons. If you do not see the voice or video call button, it indicates Skype web plugin is not yet available.
This post will show you how to troubleshoot No Video, Audio or Sound in Skype calls on Windows.
Related Posts: