How to Download and Install Skype for Mac

Microsoft's Skype for Mac is a messaging client that facilitates peer-to-peer video chats, computer-to-phone calling, text messaging, and file sharing. Although some services require a subscription, the basic functions of Skype are available free to users. Subscribers can choose from packages that allow unlimited calls to domestic and international locations for a low monthly fee.

In addition to being a free download on your Mac, the Skype app is also available for your iPhone, as well as for Windows, Linux, and Android devices. Skype is also compatible with certain Xbox One and Amazon Kindle Fire HD devices.

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Check Your Mac System Requirements

Before downloading the Skype for Mac client, ensure that your Mac meets the following system requirements:

Mac OS X 10.9 or higher
At least 1 GHz Intel processor (Core 2 Duo)
At least 1 GB RAM
The latest version of QuickTime

Microphone (a headset is recommended)
Webcam for video chat
Broadband connection: For voice calls, you need a broadband connection with at least 100 Kbps download and upload speeds.

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Download Skype for Mac

In your web browser, go to the Skype for Mac download page. Click the Get Skype for Mac download button. The Skype installation file downloads to your Downloads folder by default or to whatever folder you select.

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Launch the Skype for Mac Installer

Open the Downloads folder and double-click the Skype for Mac installation file to start the installation process.

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Install Skype on Mac

Skype Installation on Mac — Screenshot © 2010 Skype Limited

After you double-click the installation file, a Finder window opens prompting you to add the Skype app to your Applications folder. Simply drag the Skype logo into the Applications folder icon on that screen.

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Locate Skype in Your Applications Folder

You can launch Skype for Mac by opening the Launchpad in your Mac dock. Find the Skype app icon and click on it.

Alternatively, you can find the Skype for Mac app by going into your Applications folder. Double-click the Skype icon to launch the service.

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Log In and Start Using Skype for Mac

After launching Skype for Mac, you are prompted to log in to your Skype account to begin.

Now you can use Skype on your computer to:

Share files and photos
Chat through instant messages
Start or participate in group video calls
Make low-cost calls to landlines and mobile devices
Send text messages to mobile devices

You can even use Skype as your home phone.

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Skype Features

Whether you use Skype on your Mac to communicate with your family and friends or with co-workers and clients, you can get more from the conversations using Skype calling features. They include:

Calling: Free Skype-to-Skype calls anywhere in the world, calls to mobiles and landlines worldwide at low rates, group calls up to 25 people, call forwarding, and caller ID.
Video: One-to-one video calls and group video calls
Messaging: SMS texts, instant messaging, video messaging, and mojis and emoticons.
Sharing: Drop a file into your Skype chat to send files, photos, and videos of any size over Skype. Share your computer screen with the person you are talking to, group screen sharing, and contact sharing.