How to use Skype? Detailed explanation of prices, features, etc.

Skype allows you to make free calls, chat, and share images with anyone who uses Skype. Therefore, it is suitable for web conferencing. In addition to computers, it can also be used on smartphones and tablets, making it convenient for

telework

and group work in faraway locations.

You can also obtain a 050 number and make calls to landlines and mobile phones, although this will cost a fee. In this article, we will explain in detail how to use Skype, its fees, and features.

What is Skype?

Skype is a software that allows you to make free calls to people all over the world by using Skype. In addition to voice calls, you can also use it for video calls, group calls, sending instant messages, images and files, and more.

Another great feature is that it can be used on a variety of devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets.

Fee

Content	Fee
Call to Skype	free
Chat with Skype	free
Calls from Skype to landlines and mobiles	Paid
Get number from 050	Paid

plan

Skype has two types of plans:

Skype credit

Skype Credit doesn’t require a contract or monthly plan; you only need to pay when you use it. It can be used not only for calls but also for SMS and other Skype services. Credit fees are set by country, so if you use it in Japan, the following Japanese fees will apply. (As of August 2022)

maximum time	Fee
185 minutes	600 yen
375 minutes	1,200 yen
940 minutes	3,000 yen

monthly plan

If you choose a monthly plan, you can make up to 300 minutes of calls for 850 yen per month. If you choose the 300 minute plan and make calls for more than 300 minutes, you will receive additional credits. You can try each plan for free for one month, so if you are unsure about how to use it, you should try it first. (As of August 2022)

Call time	How to call	Fee
300 minutes	Mobile phone and landline phone	850 yen
100 minutes	Mobile phone and landline phone	475 yen
unlimited	landline phone	475 yen
unlimited	Mobile phone and landline phone	2,400 yen

Compatible devices

Skype supports the following devices:

Windows, macOS, iPhone, iPad, Android, Xbox

What you can do with Skype

Things you can do with Skype include:

free calls

You can call anyone using Skype for free. Furthermore, as long as you have an internet connection, you can chat with people all over the world using your computer or smartphone. With this free calling and chat feature, you can easily stay in touch with your friends and family in Japan while you’re abroad.

chat

The Skype instant messaging app allows you to exchange messages and send images and files.

The Skype instant messaging app allows you to keep your conversations private with end-to-end encryption.

Group calls also possible

Skype allows you to make group calls with up to 100 people. Additionally, you can record calls and enable live captioning.

IP phone

Skype can be used as an IP phone. Since you can obtain a new phone number, you can use it if you want to use a separate number for business purposes and other purposes. You can obtain up to 10 Skype numbers.

However, please note that calls to IP phones starting with 050 or emergency calls are not supported.

How to use Skype

To use Skype, you need to follow the steps below.

1. Install Skype

2. ID issue

Install Skype

First install Skype. It can be used on various devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets.

Download

here

You can download Skype for the device you are currently using.

For example, when downloading using a computer, you need to choose the one that is suitable for the OS you are currently using, as shown below.

ID issue

Skype registration is required to use a Skype account. If you do not register, you will not be able to use or sign in to your Skype account. There is no fee required to issue an account.

A Microsoft account is required to issue an account.

Please obtain a Microsoft account

here

.

After creating a Microsoft account, register your name, country, date of birth, and phone number (or email address). You will then receive a code from Microsoft via SMS or email to verify your mobile phone number or email address.

Enter that code to create an account.

Audio and camera settings

Configure audio, microphone, and speaker settings. Please make a free test call to check whether you can hear your voice and whether your voice responds.

You can then set up your camera and see how you look. Skype preparation is now complete. After completing the initial settings, you will automatically be redirected to the Skype basic screen.

Choose a plan

Skype has two plans:

Skype Credit is a type of service where you pay only as much as you need, and the monthly amount is fixed. There are various plans, including those that depend on call time and those that allow you to use only landlines.

You will not have any problems with payment methods such as credit card, bank transfer, app billing, and Google Pay.

Skype services

Skype has the following services: (Support for Business online ended in July 2021.)

Skype for Business Online

Support for Skype for Business Online will end in July 2021, and Microsoft is promoting the transition to Teams. However, even though Skype for Business Online has ended, you can continue to use Skype for business purposes.

However, there will be no support for businesses like before, so if you need support, we recommend using Teams.

Skype online

You can use Skype in your browser using Skype online without having to install it.

Click here

for Skype online.

Skype online can be used on computers, smartphones, and tablets without installation. It is convenient because it can be used with just one click. Calls and chats are possible in the same way as the installed version.

It is also compatible with the following browsers.

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Additionally, with Skype online you can:

call recording

Capture special moments on Skype calls with loved ones or record important meetings with colleagues.

notification panel

Click the bell icon to see all the reactions to your messages, @mentions in group conversations, and quotes from other people’s comments, all in one place.

Search chat gallery

You can easily search for media from the list. Select a media type or search across.

Quote:

Skype

summary

Skype allows users to call each other for free. Also, although it costs a fee, you can obtain a 050 number and make and receive calls from mobile phones and landlines, which is convenient when you want to use different numbers for business purposes.

In addition to messages, you can also share images, files, and screens in chat. This makes the service easy to use for remote work.

We recommend Skype Credit, where you only pay for what you need, and a flat-rate plan if you know you will be using it regularly.