If you like signing up to test beta builds and new features before they roll out to the general public, then you are the one Skype is looking for. Last Nov. 8, it has announced the Skype Insiders Program to help in its product development.
The Insider Program Concept
It seems like one of the criteria is boundless enthusiasm in addition to a willingness to live with bugs and flaws that need to be reported as new Skype builds roll out.
"We are working hard to improve the way you communicate with those who mean most," a Skype community manager posted at the Skype forum. "We are focusing on improving the ease of use and reliability of Skype, but we need your help."
The public must have heard about Microsoft's Insider Program concept from its introduction of the Windows 10 operating system. It is credited for the fast deployment of features such as the Refresh Windows tool, which cleans Windows 10 bloatware. This program involved ordinary users as opposed to developers, who test new builds and their features. This means that just about anyone in the general public can apply for the Skype program.
As a product owned by Microsoft, Skype is getting the same treatment. Xbox's own Insider Program was launched several hours before the announcement for Skype. They add to Microsoft's similar initiatives for Microsoft Office and Bing.
Skype Insider Registration
If you are a Skype fan and is interested to join, Microsoft is offering several benefits. These, of course, include early access to new Skype builds, improvements and services. In addition, you will be able to provide feedback on what to improve and even suggest new ideas or features that you want to see in the video messaging platform.
The process of joining the Skype Insider Program is simple. After filling up a registration form, you can download the Skype Insiders build, which needs to be used alongside the current stable version. You will also be required to sign the program's terms. Particularly, this entails confidentiality agreement so that improvements and new features don't get released prematurely.
What To Expect
The Skype Insiders Program is available to Skype users in the iOS, Android, and Mac platforms. The Skype universal app for Windows 10 is part of the Windows Insider Program.
The current Skype insider build includes key features like emoticon search as well as modifications to the call forwarding and voicemail functions. Insider program participants will be able to use these features and provide feedback so that the public release — if these features are actually implemented — offers better experience.
