Trying to explain to a relative how to install Skype before you can call them can be a painful process, but Skype has a solution.
It has introduced Skype Links that let you make video and voice calls with friends and relatives even if they don't have an account.
The link has to be generated within Skype - so at least one person must have an account - but it can then be shared with up to 25 people whether they use the software or not.
In a blog post announcing the changes, Skype said: 'We’re excited to announce something new - a small change that will make a big difference to how people use Skype every day.
'We’ve started to roll-out the ability for users to invite anyone to join a Skype chat by sharing a unique link – send it however you want, in an email, on Facebook, WhatsApp, Messenger or Twitter.
HOW TO USE SKYPE CHAT LINKS
Skype links can be generated from Skype for Windows, Skype for Mac, as well as Skype for Web.
Skype for Web lets users sign into their account and make calls on computers that don't have the Skype software installed.
To create a link, click New and select Share Conversation.
An untitled conversation will appear on the left-hand panel and selecting this shows the link.
This link can be copied, or people can be invited to join the conversation using the link via email.
Once a person clicks on the link, a Skype for Web tab will open where they can click Join Conversation' and enter their name.
This can be any name of their choosing and is simply to help others in the group identify them - it is not tied to, or used to create an account.
'But best of all, anyone can join the chat. No Skype account or app download required.'
Friends and relatives also don't need to be listed as a contact on the initial person's Skype account either.
Skype links can be generated from Skype for Windows, Skype for Mac, as well as Skype for Web.
Skype for Web lets users sign into their account and make calls on computers that don't have the Skype software installed.
To create a link, click New and select Share Conversation.
An untitled conversation will appear on the left-hand panel and selecting this shows the link.
This link can be copied, or people can be invited to join the conversation using the link via email.
The conversation can also be renamed in this window.
Once a person clicks on the link, a Skype for Web tab will open where they can click Join Conversation' and enter their name.
This can be any name of their choosing and is simply to help others in the group identify them - it is not tied to, or used to create an account.
They will then join the conversation as a guest. Alternatively, if they do have an account and want to use those details to log in, they can.
Skype links can be generated from Skype for Windows, Skype for Mac, as well as Skype for Web. Skype for Web lets users sign into their account and make calls on computers that don't have the Skype software installed. To create a link, click New and select Share Conversation (pictured)
If a person doesn't have a webcam on their PC or laptop they can still make voice calls using Skype, but the Skype link won't work on mobile browsers.
Instead, people who want to use Skype URLs on their phone must download the Skype app and set up an account before entering the link into their browser.
Once the link has been entered, they will be transferred to their app.
These changes are being rolled out to users in the US and UK from today and will be made available to the rest of the world 'over the next couple of weeks.'
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