Skype coming to more TVs, debuts group video calling

In addition to declaring that it is acquiring Qik, Skype has made two other important announcements. The first is related to the service coming to TVs while the second is regarding the group video calling feature shedding its beta tag.

Skype-enabled TVs were introduced last year, but now it's going to be even easier to get Skype on your TV thanks to more partnerships. Sony and Vizio plan on shipping Skype-enabled Sony BRAVIA and VIZIO VIA TVs later this year, joining the myriad products already available from Panasonic and Samsung. There are also Skype-enabled Panasonic and Sony Blu-ray players and webcams that would bring the service to your living room without having to buy a whole new TV.

Separately, group video calling has officially joined Skype's product line-up in the new version for Windows. The feature is only available as part of a new Premium package, which offers group video calling together with access to live chat customer support, and will set you back $4.99/€3.49/£2.99 per day or $8.99/€5.99/£4.99 per month. If you sign up in the first month, you'll receive a 33 percent discount on a three or 12 month subscription, plus a 25 percent discount off an HD webcam.

The new version of Skype for Windows also includes a number of improvements to video stability and quality. You can download it directly from here.