Accessibility features in Skype

Having assistive features on your device makes it easier for people with disabilities to navigate and operate it.

Customize your theme

In order to meet the specific needs of your business, Skype offers a wide range of customization options.

1. Please select a profile picture for your profile.

2. Click on the Settings button.

3. To customize your appearance, click on Appearance:

   • Color.

   • There is a light mode, a dark mode, and a mode that uses the system settings.

   • In high contrast light mode, you can choose between light and dark modes.

Desktop Keyboard shortcuts for themes

In order to enter the theme selection screen quickly, follow these steps:

• On Mac – Cmd + T

• On Windows – Ctrl + T

If you want to switch between your current theme’s Light and Dark modes, please follow these steps:

• On Mac – Cmd + Shift + T

• On Windows – Ctrl + Shift + T

Turn on subtitles

1. You can select more than one option during a video or audio call.

2. To enable subtitles, select the Turn subtitles on checkbox.

Take a look at our guide on how to use subtitles on Skype to learn more.

Keyboard Shortcuts

The keyboard shortcuts that are available for Skype can help you navigate through the program quickly.

Font Size

On the desktop and the web, you have the option of setting the default font size for Skype.

• If you are using a Mac, you can zoom in or out using the View menu in the top bar of the screen:

  • Cmd + + for zoom in

  • Cmd + – for zooming out.

  • Cmd + 0 for actual size

• It is possible to zoom in, out, or view the image at its actual size with the help of Alt + V on Windows:

  • Ctrl + Shift + = for zooming in.

  • Ctrl + – for zooming out

  • Ctrl + 0 for actual size

Automatically Answer Calls

It is possible to set Skype up to answer calls automatically if you wish. Skype does not offer this feature in its iPhone, iPad, or web applications.

1. Click on the profile picture that you would like to use.

2. Click on the Settings button.

3. Click on the Calling option.

4. Click on the Advanced button.

5. It is possible for you to select the option of automatically answering incoming phone calls if you wish to do so.

6. It is also possible to set a secondary option to automatically start my video if you would like.

Check Microphone and Video State

While on a call, announce the status of the microphone as follows:

• On Mac – [Command] + Shift + Option + [M]

• On Windows – Ctrl + Alt + M

During a call, announce the video status of your own device.

• On Mac – [Command] + Shift + Option + [K]

• On Windows – Ctrl + Shift + Alt + K

Using Skype with Assistive Technologies

Assistive Technologies such as screen readers come packaged with Windows and Mac OS, so Skype is designed to work with Assistive Technologies as well.

The setup of Windows Narrator can be found here.

The following information will assist you in setting up VoiceOver on your Mac.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the features free to use in Skype?

In addition to the fact that Skype makes online calling free, you can enjoy some unique features when you make an online call using Skype:

• If you have a desktop or mobile device, you can share the screen with others. With integrated screen sharing, you can share presentations, holiday photos, or any other screen on your computer during a telephone conversation.

• The files can be dragged and dropped.

• Record the meeting so that you can refer back to it later.

What are the benefits of Skype?

There is no doubt that Skype can offer you an easy way to communicate with your personal and business contacts, both through video and voice. In spite of the fact that email and instant messaging are both acceptable methods of communication in the modern world, it is highly beneficial to have an actual conversation with someone to strengthen your relationships.

What are the features of Skype for business?

It is now possible to communicate with co-workers or business partners anywhere in the world using Skype for Business.

• Use IM, a phone call, or a video call to start a conversation.

• Keep track of your contacts’ availability online or at a meeting, as well as when they are presenting.

• Make sure that your meetings are secured with industrial-strength technology.

• A large audience can be reached by broadcasting online.

Which feature is not available in Skype free?

In Skype 4.0, the feature of public chats has been discontinued. As a result of this feature, Skype users were able to gather together and discuss a specific topic without having to initiate contact with one another.

All images and contents credit goes to supportskype.com