Skype also gets custom backgrounds for video calls with latest update

Earlier this month, we reported that Microsoft had rolled out the ability to set background effects during Microsoft Teams video calls. This week, the company is bringing the same feature to Skype for Windows, Mac, Linux, and the web (via Neowin), and this should be a timely addition after Skype usage grew 70% last month.

Custom backgrounds are now available in version 8.59 of Skype and this feature expands on the existing background blur feature in Skype. For anyone interested to try out the new custom background feature, you can follow the steps mentioned below, though it’s important to note that the new feature isn’t supported on the Microsoft Store version of Skype:

• During a call, hover over the video button or click the More menu.
• Click Choose background effect.
• You can Blur the room you’re in currently, choose an image you previously added, or Add a new image to customize your background effect.

Note: It’s recommended to use images in landscape orientation and the custom image needs to be saved locally on your desktop. Skype for Windows 10 (version 14) supports blur background only.

Besides the new custom backgrounds support, the latest Skype update also brings some notable features including easier access to call controls directly from the chat menu and ability to share files from the Finder app on macOS. Do you think Skype video calls could become cool again? Sound off in the comments below.