Skype, the very popular free VOIP software was recently updated for Linux systems, including Ubuntu. This update brings some new features including, enhanced user interface, cloud-based group chat experience, PulseAudio support and file transfer improvements across multiple devices.
This release also brings integrated desktop support with notifications (must enable), support for PulseAudio and bunch of other bug fixes. PulseAudio enhanced voice quality in Linux systems.
For more about this release, please check out this release page.
Skype package is available directly from Ubuntu repository. However, the latest version of Skype isn’t updated in the repository so you must manually download and install Skype from it download page.
When the repository is updated with the latest version, all you have to do is enable Ubuntu partner repository and install Skype. Until then, manually download the installation package from Skype download page and install.
To install the latest version of Skype, make sure you don’t have previous versions installed. If you do, run the commands below to remove all previous versions of Skype program.
sudo apt-get remove skype skype-bin:i386 skype:i386
Next, run the commands below to install this package to support Skype AppIndicator.
sudo apt-get install sni-qt:i386
When you’ve carried out the above commands, go to Skype download page and download the latest version.
Or press Ctrl — Alt — T on your keyboard to open the terminal. When it opens, use the commands below to download Skype on Ubuntu.
cd /tmp && wget http://www.skype.com/go/getskype-linux-beta-ubuntu-64/skype-ubuntu-precise_4.3.0.37-1_i386.deb
Next, run the commands below to install Skype in Ubuntu.
sudo dpkg -i skype-ubuntu*.deb; sudo apt-get install -f
The commands above will install Skype and other required packages to allow Skype to function correctly in Ubuntu.
After that, go to Unity Dash and search for Skype and launch it.
That’s it!
All you have to do now is enjoy this free VOIP software to make call and chat with friends around the world for free.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to install Skype 4.3 in Ubuntu?
To install Skype 4.3 in Ubuntu, first remove any previous versions by running 'sudo apt-get remove skype skype-bin:i386 skype:i386'. Then, download the Skype installation package from Skype's official website and install it using 'sudo dpkg -i skype-ubuntu*.deb; sudo apt-get install -f'.
What are the new features in Skype 4.3 for Ubuntu?
Skype 4.3 for Ubuntu brings enhancements such as an improved user interface, cloud-based group chat experience, PulseAudio support, file transfer improvements, and integrated desktop support with notifications. It also includes bug fixes and better voice quality through PulseAudio.
Where can I download Skype 4.3 for Ubuntu?
You can download Skype 4.3 for Ubuntu from the Skype download page by visiting 'http://www.skype.com/go/getskype-linux-beta-ubuntu-64/skype-ubuntu-precise_4.3.0.37-1_i386.deb'. Make sure to download the correct package for your system architecture.
How to enable Ubuntu partner repository for Skype installation?
To enable the Ubuntu partner repository for Skype installation, you can run the appropriate commands in the terminal. Once the repository is updated with the latest version of Skype, you can simply install it using the package manager.
What is the command to install the package to support Skype AppIndicator in Ubuntu?
To install the package to support Skype AppIndicator in Ubuntu, run 'sudo apt-get install sni-qt:i386'. This will ensure that Skype functions correctly and integrates with the system tray for notifications.
How to launch Skype in Ubuntu after installation?
After installing Skype in Ubuntu, you can launch it by searching for 'Skype' in the Unity Dash. Simply click on the Skype icon to open the application and start using it for voice calls, video calls, and messaging.
Can I install Skype in Ubuntu without using the Ubuntu repository?
Yes, you can manually download and install Skype in Ubuntu without relying on the Ubuntu repository. This method allows you to install the latest version of Skype directly from the official Skype website.
What are the steps to download Skype on Ubuntu using the terminal?
To download Skype on Ubuntu using the terminal, open the terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T. Then navigate to the temporary directory '/tmp' and use the command 'wget http://www.skype.com/go/getskype-linux-beta-ubuntu-64/skype-ubuntu-precise_4.3.0.37-1_i386.deb'. Proceed with the installation using 'sudo dpkg -i skype-ubuntu*.deb'.