Skype for Linux version 5.0 enters Beta phase; now available for download

Skype for Linux Alpha was launched just a few months ago and today the Skype team has announced that its Linux version has now hit beta. With that news, Skype for Linux Beta version 5.0 is now available for download. The Skype team on its official blog hints that it has been focused on building a new experience that goes with its current focus, which is moving from peer-to-peer to a modern cloud architecture. The team wanted to create a Linux version of Skype that is as feature rich as the existing Skype on desktop and mobile platforms. And by introducing the same to beta, is an indicator that Skype is serious about the Linux platform. The new update brings the usual stuff along with a few updates (many of which have come from user requests). The update also brings performance improvements and fixes a few bugs as well. The new features as per the changelog includes the following:

• Calling updates: Calls to mobiles and landlines with Skype credit, one-to-one video calls can be made from Linux to Skype users on the latest versions of Skype for Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac.
• Better collaboration: Linux users can now view shared screens from other Skype desktop clients (Windows 7.33 and above, Mac 7.46 and above).
• Usability improvements: Unity launcher now shows the number of unread conversations, online contacts in contact list now include Away and Do Not Disturb statuses.