Microsoft Announces New Skype for Web Beta with Plugin-Free Safari Support [Mac Blog]

Microsoft today announced a new beta version of Skype for Web that brings a plugin-free version of the service to all modern browsers. Skype for Web beta will be available now to a small number of users, with a broader public rollout planned in the coming months.

Skye for Web relies on Web Real-Time Communication (WebRTC) APIs to provide real-time voice calling, video cha,t and instant messaging via a web browser. Unlike the previous web version of Skype, the new beta does not require the user to download a plugin or any additional software. It works with all modern browsers, including Internet Explorer 10, Chrome, Firefox, and Safari 6.

Skype for Web will be available on Skype.com with invitations being sent out to customers on a rolling basis. Once enabled, users will be able to log in to their online Skype account and start messaging or calling friends with a just a few clicks. Though Skype's new web-based communication tool may be useful for some, Mac users on the go may want to meter their usage as Microsoft documents one known issue of increased battery consumption specific to the Skype for Web beta on Safari.