The news
The latest release of Skype software for Macs (V2.0 beta, a 23MB download) improves the app's free video-calling capabilities - a feature that's been in beta since late July and is already incorporated into the release version of Skype for Windows.
To run the beta, Apple users will need OSX 10.3.9 or later. Unlike using Apple's iChat AV video-calling, Skype's version lets Mac users see and be seen by users of Windows webcams if they, too, are running Skype. iChat, though, it has to be said, is a far more sophisticated thing.
Mac OS X appears to be a lot more security-conscious than Windows (or, at least, more picky), so a number of Mac users are likely, we think, to struggle to get the video side of Skype working unless they have already been successful setting up iChat.
The problem seems to be to do with hardware firewall settings and this results in a Skype error - #1102. Users of iSight cameras and other types should check out this Skype link - Firewall guide - and keep an eye on the Skype for Mac with Video Preview forum.
Oddly, Skype's own FAQ about Mac video calling doesn't address problems with iSight cameras only those from third-party makers, of which only two are recommend, the Philips SPC900NC and Logitech QuickCam Pro 4000. These are said to require the installation of the most recent drivers - available from SourceForge.net at: http://webcam-osx.sf.net/.
That site list a whole lot of other compatible cameras and has a plenty of useful downloads and information for non-iSight users, so is a must-visit if you're planning to use the video features of Skype for Mac 2.0. This thread on Skype's own Mac OS X support forums, for instance, points out that users of USB webcams will need to install a specific library component - macam.component - available from http://webcam-osx.sf.net/.
It says:
A lot of people seem to be
having trouble getting their USB webcam to work with Skype Video. I
have a Logitech Communicate STX which works great with Skype video and
other chatvideo applications. You absolutely definitely have to install
"macam.component" into "library" -> "QuickTime" folder.
Possibly, you may have to reboot your machine. Once this is done, Skype
Video is set for video. Macam can be downloaded here:
http://webcam-osx.sourceforge.net/.
The "macam" application is less important, you can copy it to your applications folder if you like. The only important item is "macam.component". As mentioned earlier, copy this item to the appropriate folder and your [sic] set to go.
As well as OS X v10.3.9 or later, users of Skype for
Mac 2.0 beta will need a machine with an 800MHz or faster CPU
(G4 or better), 512MB RAM, 40MB of free hard
disk space, a microphone and webcam and a broadband connection.http://webcam-osx.sourceforge.net/.
The "macam" application is less important, you can copy it to your applications folder if you like. The only important item is "macam.component". As mentioned earlier, copy this item to the appropriate folder and your [sic] set to go.
Check out Skype's press release about the new software on page two, then share your thoughts on video-calling on Macs (or, indeed, Windows) in this thread in the HEXUS.lifestyle.news forum.
HEXUS.links
HEXUS.community :: discussion thread about this articleIFA 2006 :: Philips VOIP841 - PC-free DECT/Skype WiFi phone
HEXUS.lifestyle headline :: Skype enhances Mac free VoiP software
HEXUS.lifestyle headline :: Send yourself TV via Skype for under £50
External.links
Skype - Skype for Mac 2.0 beta downloadSkype - Firewall guide
Skype - Skype for Mac with Video Preview forum
Skype - FAQ on video-calling on Macs
Skype - home page
Skype - Skype for Mac OS version history
SourceForge.net - USB webcam support for Mac OS X
