Google Launches Video Calling App Duo For Android And iOS

Google has released Duo the video chatting app for Android and iOS. Duo doesn't require a separate account users need only their phone number to get started. 

Google says it built the app to function well even across poor network connections. The app will change the resolution to match the connection speed in order to keep the call going, and can seamlessly switch from wifi to cellular. 

A feature called Knock Knock gives people a preview video of the person calling so they can see what's up before answering the video call. Duo is free to download from the Google Play Store and iTunes App Store.

Source: Google Duo, Google Play Store, Apple App Store

Skype adds Facebook to Facebook video calls

Skype has added Facebook-to-Facebook video call support, allowing users of the social networking site to initiate calls with their webcams to their Facebook contacts. Part of Skype 5.4 Beta for Mac and Skype 5.7 Beta for Windows, once your Skype and Facebook accounts are associated it’s a case of hitting the video call button in Facebook and making sure your hair doesn’t look ridiculous.

Previous betas added the ability to read Facebook messages and IM using Facebook Chat, all within Skype. The app also shows recent Facebook updates, and allows you to update your own status, without loading up the browser.

The new betas also apparently boost video quality for Mac users, with a new rendering engine for smoother results, along with group screen sharing for both Windows and Mac users (though the former will need a premium account). Desktop sharing is also supported. It’s also worth noting that Skype has been adding adverts into its recent updates, so if you’re adverse to those then perhaps stick with the version you already have.