How to install Skype for Ubuntu

Rebecca Williams

September 18, 2024

Hello everyone, you can download Skype for Ubuntu, but before you do, have you actually heard of Skype? Chances are you probably have, if not, detailed paragraphs about what Skype is and what it can do for you is right below. I have been using Skype for at least 10 years now, since the days before WhatsApp existed, way before Microsoft even bought Skype so I highly recommend it to everyone to try it at least once before you knock it or move on to alternative.

Today we will highlight Skype for Ubuntu and give you some reasons to why you should install on your Linux OS today. The perfect chat application that is used by millions worldwide. Skype has finally being ported to Linux and it is an active snap app meaning you can literally install it with a single click, much like how it is on Windows or MacOS.

How to install Skype on Ubuntu

To install Skype on your Ubuntu system, just follow the instructions below:

Choose where you want to download Skype from:
- 🌐 Download from the Official Website (.deb format)
- 📦 Download from Snapcraft (Snap package)
- 🐧 Download from Flathub (Flatpak package)
Once downloaded, follow the provided installation instructions for your chosen format. After installation, launch Skype from your applications menu and start connecting with people worldwide.

Manually Install Skype on Ubuntu

Open your terminal.
Run the following command to install Skype via the Snap package:
```
sudo snap install skype --classic
```
If you prefer to install Skype via Flatpak, use this command:
```
flatpak install flathub com.skype.Client
```
Once the installation is complete, launch Skype from your applications menu or by typing:
```
skype
```

What Is Skype About?

Skype is a popular communication platform developed by Microsoft that allows users to make voice and video calls, send instant messages, and share files over the internet. It’s widely used for both personal and business communication, providing a reliable way to stay connected with others globally. Skype offers a free version with core features and paid options for more advanced capabilities like calling landlines and mobile numbers.

Key Features of Skype:

Free Video and Voice Calls: Skype allows for free video and voice calls to other Skype users, making it an excellent tool for personal and professional communication.
Group Calls: You can make group voice and video calls with up to 100 participants for meetings, family gatherings, or group chats.
Instant Messaging: Skype’s chat feature lets you send text messages, photos, videos, and files instantly, along with emojis and GIFs.
Screen Sharing: A great feature for presentations or troubleshooting, screen sharing allows you to show your desktop to others during a call.
Skype to Phone: For a small fee, Skype allows you to make calls to landlines and mobile phones around the world.
Call Recording: Skype allows users to record calls, making it easy to save important meetings, interviews, or conversations.
Live Subtitles: Real-time subtitles help you follow along with conversations, making Skype accessible to more users.
Cross-Platform: Skype is available on a variety of platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux (Ubuntu), Android, and iOS, ensuring connectivity no matter the device.
Integrated with Microsoft Services: Skype is deeply integrated with Microsoft services like Outlook, making it convenient for users within the Microsoft ecosystem.

How to uninstall Skype

Open your terminal.
Run the following command to uninstall Skype if installed via Snap:
```
sudo snap remove skype
```
If you installed Skype via Flatpak, use this command instead:
```
flatpak uninstall com.skype.Client
```
To remove any residual configuration files, you can run the following command:
```
rm -rf ~/.skype
```