Microsoft- the tech giant, recently announced an update for the desktop version of Skype. The update comes with an option to make emergency calls through their PCs using Skype in the US. With the new update users can also send voice messages of up to five minutes. Previously, the users could only send voice messages of up two minutes.
Skype for desktop also offers emergency calling services in Denmark, Australia, Finland, and the UK.
The features rolled out with the release of Skype 8.80. The users can also enable the “share your location” option to share tehri location while making emergency calls. The location will be shared only during the emergency calls to route you calls. This will allow the local emergency operators to trace the location you are at and reach out for help.
If your device doesn’t have an API for sharing location, your location will not be shared automatically. Similarly, the location will not be shared if location sharing is not available at your location.
How to enable location sharing option
- Go to Skype and click on the profile picture
- Look for settings
- Under settings you will see ‘privacy’ option
- Tap on privacy and turn 911 emergency sharing on
Other updates of the Skype 8.80
- The app now has custom reactions for mobile. You can react during calls on Skype for Mac, Windows, Web, and Linux.
- You can now choose light or dark theme in Skype. The changes will reflect during the Skype call.
- Zoom option is also available on the share screen. You can look closely at the share scree.
- Several bugs have been fixed and there are improvements in the stability.
There is no update regarding the release of 911 calling feature in other countries. However, the feature may be soon available for other countries as well.
