Having a nice looking custom background (sort of) during video calls has become a habit for me. What originally started as a fun experiment during Zoom video calls has turned into a very useful way of keeping the real background out of sight. Whether it’s to hide unwanted people from the stage or to prevent anyone from peeking into a not-so-attractive interior, a virtual background has a role to play. Beyond privacy, it adds some shine to your personal conversation, especially when you’re in a free conversation with your loved ones. If that’s what you’re after, here’s how you can set a custom background for Skype video calls.
Customize Background for Skype Video Calls on Mac, Windows, Linux and Web
Note that to set a virtual background for Skype video calls, you must be running the latest version of the app (8.59.0.77 or higher). So make sure to update the video calling app on your computer before trying this feature.
In particular, Skype allows you to customize the background for both specific and all video calls. If you like custom backgrounds and want them to appear on all your video calls, you can easily do that. However, if you prefer to choose based on your mood, it doesn’t take a few clicks to get a funky background up and running.
Change Background for Certain Skype Video Calls
- Launch Skype on your computer and start a video call as usual.
2. Now, click either more menu (three dots) or mouse over the video button.
3. Next, click on Choose the background effect.
4. Next add a new image as background for video call or choose the one you added earlier. If you want to set your own picture, click the three dots and then “+” button. After that, choose your favorite picture from the photo library.
Request! The change will take effect instantly and give the background a completely new look.
Note: It’s also worth mentioning that you have the option to blur the background. Simply click Blur option to divert attention from the background.
Set a Custom Background for All Your Skype Calls
- Launch Skype on your device and click on your profile photo.
2. Now, click on three points and Select Settings
3. Next, click on audio video.
4. Next, you can choose: add a new image as virtual background for your Skype. Depending on your needs, you can also select the image you have added before.
If you want to set your own picture as the background, click on it. three pointsand then hit “+” button. After that, select the picture you want to use as the background for your Skype video call. And yes there is an option blur the background for all video calls.
Use Virtual Background for Skype Video Calls
That is all! Now that you know how to customize the background effect for Skype video calls, make the most of it to bring a lot of fun to your video call. In addition to adding a section of humor, it can also come in handy for providing the necessary privacy.
Despite fierce competition from companies like Zoom, FaceTime, WhatsApp and Viber, Skype remains one of the most loved video calling apps. What do you think about Skype and what are the areas that need improvement to make it even better?
