How to Blur the Background In Skype

This article explains how to use the Skype Blur My Background feature to make your video calls appear more polished and professional. Instructions apply to Skype (version 8) on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Skype for Windows 10 (version 14).

How to Blur Background in a Skype Video Call

Background blur is available on most desktops and laptops with an up-to-date version of Skype. The tool works in real-time during your video call. When you use the background blur setting, your backdrop will be softened and slightly fuzzy, helping your contact focus on you and not your cluttered office or the people sitting behind you.

You can only enable the background blur setting when your video call is in progress.

1. Start Skype and log-in if prompted.

2. Click Start a Conversation.

3. Click on the name of the contact with whom you want to connect. Alternatively, search for the name of the person you want to call.

4. Start a video call with your contact.

5. Hover over the Video icon.

6. Click the Blur My Background toggle switch that appears to turn on the Skype feature.

   Although this feature works well most of the time, Skype does not guarantee that your background will always be blurred when you enable this setting.

7. Your background will instantly be subtly blurred. You can toggle the switch off again at any time if you wish to sharpen the background once more.

   Skype software uses AI to detect human forms, including hair, arms, and hands, so you are free to move or gesture during your Skype video call and the background will remain softly blurred.