Microsoft began rolling out a new update for Skype users in the Insider program last week, and today the company has revealed more of the new features included in the update. It seems like this version is mostly focused on improving the call experience. After we reported last week that it would be possible to mute incoming audio during a one-on-one call, today's announcements all revolve around calls as well.
Most notably, for group calls, Skype is introducing a speaker view, which will let participants focus on the person talking at any given time. When speaker view is enabled, rather than seeing a grid of all the participants, the person who's currently talking will be brought to the foreground, with the remaining participants being displayed in smaller windows in the top right corner. This feature is available on all platforms with version 8.42.76.54.
Also for group calls, desktop users will notice that they have some new options before jumping in. Up until now, it's been possible to change your camera and mic settings prior to joining a call, but now you'll also be able to turn on the new background blur feature prior to joining, so you don't run the risk of exposing your environment to other participants.
Additionally, if you're using the Skype app from the Microsoft Store on Windows 10, you'll now be able to use keyboard shortcuts to take certain actions for calls, without having to bring the Skype window to the foreground. For now, you can press Ctrl+E to reject an incoming call or end an ongoing one, and you can also press Ctrl+M to mute and unmute your microphone while on a call. There's currently no shortcut for answering a call, but Microsoft says that will be coming soon.
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