Luxembourg, January 5, 2005 - Today Skype launches v1.1 for Windows and introduces the new Chat feature, allowing Skype users to hold multi-person or forum-style conversations with groups of people. Chat expands the existing one-to-one chatting and other instant message features in previous versions of Skype, and allows groups of up to 50 to communicate. V1.1 was first released in beta on Dec 15, 2004. Skype thanks all the users who downloaded the beta and provided feedback during the trial.
"Skype's P2P technology is taking group instant messaging to new levels and extending the group communication potential Skype first enabled when we launched free conference calling earlier this year," said Niklas Zennström, Skype CEO and co-founder. "Skype allows anyone to have high-quality voice calling and chat connections, for free, with people from around the world."
Additional new features in Skype v1.1 include improved contact list management and presentation, new mini avatars alongside highlighted contacts and new tray alerts that help users monitor their contacts and messaging.
Skype v1.1 is available immediately for download from www.skype.com and from select Skype partners. Skype for Windows v 1.1 works on any Windows 2000/XP PC with a 400 MHz processor, and requires a headset, Skype compatible phone or a microphone and speakers.
Please let us know if you have questions or would like additional information.
Happy New Year.
