Stream Your Content to a Wider Audience with Skype for Media Center
Skype for Media Center: How to Turn Your TV into a Video Conferencing Hub
Skype is one of the most popular and widely used video calling platforms in the world. It allows you to make free video and voice calls, send instant messages, and share files with other people on Skype. You can also use Skype to call mobile phones and landlines at low rates, and access various features such as screen sharing, call recording, live subtitles, and more.
Skype for Media Center
But did you know that you can also use Skype on your TV? Yes, you can turn your TV into a media center that lets you enjoy Skype on a bigger screen and with better sound quality. A media center is a device or software that enables you to organize and play multimedia content such as videos, music, photos, and games on your TV or computer. With a media center, you can create a home theater setup that enhances your entertainment experience.
Skype can enhance your media center experience by allowing you to make video calls from your couch, watch live events and shows with your friends and family, and stream your own content to a wider audience. Whether you are a casual user or a media professional, Skype can help you connect, communicate, and collaborate with anyone from anywhere.
In this article, we will show you how to use Skype on different media center devices, such as smart TVs, streaming devices, and game consoles. We will also discuss the benefits of Skype for media professionals who want to create innovative and engaging content. By the end of this article, you will be able to turn your TV into a video conferencing hub with Skype.
How to use Skype on different media center devices
There are several ways to use Skype on your TV, depending on the type of device you have. Here are some of the most common media center devices that support Skype:
Using Skype on a smart TV
A smart TV is a TV that has internet connectivity and can run apps. Some smart TVs have built-in cameras and microphones that allow you to use Skype without any additional equipment. Others require an external webcam and microphone that can be connected via USB or HDMI ports.
Samsung Smart TV
If you have a Samsung Smart TV that was released between 2010 and 2016, you may be able to download the Skype app from the Samsung App Store. To do this, follow these steps:
Open the Smart Hub menu on your TV.
Select Samsung Apps.
Search for Skype and select it.
Select Download and follow the instructions.
Once the app is installed, launch it and sign in to your account.
Start using Skype to chat or make video calls with your contacts.
Note that Samsung discontinued support for the Skype app in June 2016, so newer models may not have this option. Also, some older models may require a compatible Samsung camera to use Skype.
Other smart TVs
If you have a smart TV from another brand, such as LG, Sony, Panasonic, or Philips, you may not be able to download the Skype app directly on your TV. However, you may still be able to use Skype on your TV by using a streaming device or a game console that connects to your TV via HDMI. We will explain how to do this in the next sections.
Using Skype on a streaming device
A streaming device is a device that allows you to stream online content, such as movies, shows, music, and games, to your TV. Some streaming devices also support video calling apps, such as Skype, that let you make video calls from your TV. Here are some of the streaming devices that you can use to access Skype on your TV:
Chromecast with Google TV
Chromecast with Google TV is a device that plugs into your TV's HDMI port and lets you stream content from various apps and services, such as Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and Spotify. It also comes with a remote control that has a built-in microphone and a Google Assistant button that allows you to control your TV with your voice.
To use Skype on Chromecast with Google TV, you will need an Android phone or tablet that has the Skype app installed. You will also need a webcam and a microphone that can be connected to your phone or tablet via USB or Bluetooth. To make a video call with Skype on Chromecast with Google TV, follow these steps:
Connect your webcam and microphone to your phone or tablet.
Open the Skype app on your phone or tablet and sign in to your account.
Select the contact you want to call and tap the video call button.
Tap the cast icon on the top right corner of the screen and select your Chromecast device.
Your video call will appear on your TV screen. You can use the remote control to adjust the volume, mute the microphone, or end the call.
Facebook Portal TV
Facebook Portal TV is a device that sits on top of or below your TV and lets you make video calls with Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp. It has a smart camera that automatically pans and zooms to keep you in frame, and a smart sound system that enhances your voice and reduces background noise. It also supports various apps and services, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Spotify, and Zoom.
To use Skype on Facebook Portal TV, you will need a Facebook account and a Skype account. You will also need to link your Skype account to your Facebook account. To do this, follow these steps:
Open the Facebook app on your phone or tablet and tap the menu icon on the bottom right corner of the screen.
Scroll down and tap Settings & Privacy.
Tap Settings.
Scroll down and tap Media and Contacts.
Tap Linked Accounts.
Select Skype and follow the instructions to link your Skype account to your Facebook account.
Once you have linked your accounts, you can make video calls with Skype on Facebook Portal TV by following these steps:
Turn on your TV and switch to the HDMI input where your Portal TV is connected.
Select Skype from the Portal TV home screen.
Sign in to your Skype account if prompted.
Select the contact you want to call and tap the video call button.
Your video call will start on your TV screen. You can use the Portal TV remote control or voice commands to control the call.
Using Skype on a game console
A game console is a device that allows you to play video games on your TV. Some game consoles also support video calling apps, such as Skype, that let you make video calls from your TV. Here are some of the game consoles that you can use to access Skype on your TV:
Xbox One
Xbox One is a game console that lets you play games, watch movies and shows, listen to music, and browse the web on your TV. It also supports Skype, which lets you make video calls with other Xbox One users or Skype users on other devices.
To use Skype on Xbox One, you will need an Xbox Live account and a Skype account. You will also need a Kinect sensor or an Xbox compatible webcam and headset that can be connected to your console via USB ports. To make a video call with Skype on Xbox One, follow these steps:
Turn on your Xbox One and sign in to your Xbox Live account.
Select My games & apps from the home screen.
Select Apps and then select Skype.
Select the contact you want to call and press the A button.
Select Video call and press the A button again.
Your video call will start on your TV screen. You can use the Xbox controller or voice commands to control the call.
PlayStation 4
PlayStation 4 is a game console that lets you play games, watch movies and shows, listen to music, and browse the web on your TV. It also supports Skype, which lets you make video calls with other PlayStation 4 users or Skype users on other devices.
To use Skype on PlayStation 4, you will need a PlayStation Network account and a Skype account. You will also need a PlayStation Camera or a PlayStation compatible webcam and headset that can be connected to your console via USB ports. To make a video call with Skype on PlayStation 4, follow these steps:
Turn on your PlayStation 4 and sign in to your PlayStation Network account.
Select Library from the home screen.
Select Applications and then select Skype.
Sign in to your Skype account if prompted.
Select the contact you want to call and press the X button.
Select Video call and press the X button again.
Your video call will start on your TV screen. You can use the PlayStation controller or voice commands to control the call.
Benefits of Skype for media professionals
Skype is not only a great tool for personal communication, but also a powerful platform for media professionals who want to create innovative and engaging content. Here are some of the benefits of Skype for media professionals:
Broadcast high-quality video and audio content
Skype allows you to broadcast high-quality video and audio content to your audience, whether it is live or recorded. You can use Skype to stream your own shows, interviews, podcasts, webinars, tutorials, and more. You can also use Skype to join other media platforms, such as radio, TV, or online channels, and share your expertise or opinions with their audiences. Skype supports HD video and audio quality, as well as features such as background blur, noise cancellation, and live subtitles, that enhance your presentation and professionalism.
Connect with millions of Skype users worldwide
Skype has over 300 million monthly active users worldwide, which means you have a huge potential audience for your content. You can use Skype to connect with people from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds, and learn from their perspectives and experiences. You can also use Skype to invite guests or co-hosts to your shows, and have interactive conversations with them. You can also use Skype to engage with your fans and followers, and get their feedback and suggestions for your content.
Collaborate with other media creators and experts
Skype allows you to collaborate with other media creators and experts who share your passion and vision. You can use Skype to brainstorm ideas, plan projects, share resources, and work together on your content. You can also use Skype to network with other media professionals who can help you grow your career and reach new opportunities. Skype supports group video calls with up to 50 people, as well as features such as screen sharing, file sharing, chat messaging, and call recording, that facilitate teamwork and communication.
Conclusion
Skype is a versatile and powerful platform that can help you turn your TV into a video conferencing hub. You can use Skype on different media center devices, such as smart TVs, streaming devices, and game consoles, and enjoy Skype on a bigger screen and with better sound quality. You can also use Skype to create innovative and engaging content for your audience, whether it is live or recorded. You can also use Skype to connect with millions of Skype users worldwide, and collaborate with other media creators and experts.
If you want to try Skype on your media center device, all you need is an internet connection, a webcam and a microphone, and a Skype account. You can download the Skype app from the app store of your device or visit skype.com/download to get started. Once you have installed the app, you can sign in with your account or create a new one for free. Then you can start using Skype to chat or make video calls with your contacts.
Skype is more than just a video calling app. It is a media center that lets you enjoy video conferencing on your TV. Download Skype today and discover how it can enhance your media center experience.
FAQs
Is Skype free to use?
Skype is free to use for video and voice calls, instant messages, and file sharing with other Skype users. You can also use Skype to call mobile phones and landlines at low rates, which vary depending on the country and the type of call. You can buy Skype Credit or a subscription to pay for these calls. You can also use Skype to access other features, such as Skype Number, Skype To Go, Skype Translator, and Skype for Business, which may have additional costs or requirements.
What are the system requirements for Skype?
The system requirements for Skype depend on the device and the operating system you are using. Generally, you will need a device that has internet connectivity, a webcam and a microphone, and a Skype account. You will also need to download the latest version of the Skype app from the app store of your device or from skype.com/download. For more specific information on the system requirements for Skype, you can visit skype.com/en/help.
How do I record a Skype call?
You can record a Skype call with any of your contacts, whether it is a video or a voice call. To do this, follow these steps:
Start or join a Skype call with your contact.
Tap or click the More icon on the bottom right corner of the screen.
Select Start recording from the menu.
A banner will appear on the screen to inform you and your contact that the call is being recorded.
To stop recording, tap or click the More icon again and select Stop recording from the menu.
The recorded call will be saved in your chat history for 30 days. You can download it or share it with others during this period.
How do I share my screen on Skype?
You can share your screen on Skype with any of your contacts, whether it is a video or a voice call. To do this, follow these steps:
Start or join a Skype call with your contact.
Tap or click the Share Screen icon on the bottom right corner of the screen.
Select what you want to share from the options available. You can share your entire screen, a specific window, or a specific app.
To stop sharing your screen, tap or click the Share Screen icon again and select Stop sharing from the menu.
How do I troubleshoot Skype problems?
If you encounter any problems while using Skype, such as poor sound or video quality, connection issues, or app errors, you can try some of these solutions:
Check your internet connection and make sure it is stable and fast enough for Skype.
Check your webcam and microphone and make sure they are working properly and compatible with Skype.
Check your device settings and make sure they are not interfering with Skype.
Check your Skype settings and make sure they are configured correctly for your preferences.
Update your Skype app to the latest version and make sure it is compatible with your device and operating system.
Restart your device and try using Skype again.
Contact Skype support or visit skype.com/en/help for more help and guidance.
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