Skype

Skype has been around for quite some time, so you have probably at least heard of the app. Since it has been around for so long, it has had the benefit of advancing over the years to the point where it is today. One of the newest additions to the software is in the form of various chat bots that use AI to perform various functions. One thing that most users love about Skype is that it can be used on just about any platform, so it won't matter if you use Windows, Apple, or Android devices. There are also apps for less common systems like the Apple Watch, Linux systems, Blackberry devices, and Xbox consoles. You don't technically need the app since it works through the web as well. Once you've downloaded and installed the appropriate version for your system, setting up the software is a breeze. You'll choose your language from the nearly 40 options, and you'll be given the option to install a separate Click-to-Call widget for your internet browsing apps. With this widget, you'll be able to click on any phone number on any web page and instantly make a call through the web. After these basic preferences are set, you can either make a new Skype account or login with your existing Microsoft or Skype account. Any Outlook or Hotmail email account should work, and you can also use Facebook to sign in. Once you've got the account set up, you can add a profile picture and other details so users can find you. After you click the button that reads 'Start Using Skype', you'll be show the main window for the app. You can then add contacts by searching for other users, and Outlook users can view all their existing contacts through Skype. The user interface for the modern version of Skype is simple yet aesthetically pleasing. The app itself is set up almost like a digital communication device with dedicated buttons for text conversations, voice calls, and video calls. There is also a new button dedicated to the new AI software and the bots it enables. Your favorites are listed at the top of the app, and your full contact list is located below the four primary control buttons. When you click on something, more information about it appears in the main app window. This makes it easy to jump back and forth between text conversations for reference or simply due to multiple simultaneous chats. With your user photo in the top corner, you can change your status to any of the preset options or create your own personalized status.

Skype was a love hate relationship for the last 2 years. Their latest version WAS very buggy so I used the older version until 2 months ago which is when they forced us to upgrade. The latest version has been very stable, calls are very clear, and I could not see myself using any other replacement especially that it is free. I did subscribe to their outgoing calls. I wish I could receive calls one day with my own skype number but as it stands today, it is a 5 star rating.