VoIP fans can download a beta of Skype 2.5 from the firm’s website as of today, though there is no word on when the final version will ship.

Improved conference calling is one of the features being highlighted in Skype 2.5, with speakers’ pictures being flashed up when they talk.

That might come in handy if you’re a little forgetful during conference calls. A range of other features in the new Beta also seem to be targeted at the absent-minded, for example, country codes comes in a drop down menu, so you don’t have to remember pesky add-on numbers yourself. Updates are now automatic. Payment is now built-in, so you won’t forget to pay.

Those punters who don’t need to be spoon-fed will be able to send SMS messages to any mobile in the world, and can adjust their calling and internet settings to optimise call quality.

Meanwhile, the eBay-owned VoIP house has also announced Skypecasts, which it describes as “live, moderated conversations allowing groups of up to 100 people from anywhere in the world to talk to one another.”

These could be about shared interests, such as, say, an auction? Skypecasts will be free to participate in and host.®

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