Troubleshooting issues with Skype call quality

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    Having problems with the quality of your Skype call? Your internet connection – or your friend’s – is the most likely culprit. A poor internet connection can cause dropped calls, delays, and poor-quality audio and video. You will also see the Call Quality indicator when there is an issue. The following tips should help.

    1. Check the Skype Status page.
      The site will tell you if there are any reported issues.

    2. Make sure you meet the minimum system requirements and are using the latest version of Skype.
      We're always improving call quality, so for best performance, make sure that you and the person you're calling meet the minimum system requirements for Skype and are using the latest version of Skype.

    3. Check your computer and internet connection.
      A bad connection can cause dropped calls, blocky or frozen video, and poor sound. If you are having a bad connection, you may receive a notification saying Poor network connection.

      Here's a few other things that might affect your call quality:

      • Make sure you have a strong WiFi signal, or if possible, use a wired connection.

      • If the internet connection degrades during the call, Skype may turn off one or more video streams in group calls. Once the internet connection recovers, Skype will automatically turn the video back on.

      • If you're having connections issues in Windows, you can follow the troubleshooting steps in Why can't I get online.

      • Close any applications that could be interfering with your call. File sharing applications, streaming audio or video, or even just having a browser open are all things that can eat up bandwidth.

      • If you're using Skype on a laptop and you're in power-saving mode, try plugging the laptop into AC power or switching it to maximum performance mode.

    How do I resolve audio and video issues for Skype on desktop?

    Here are a few things to check:

    • Skype needs your permission to access the microphone and camera of your desktop. Check your System's Privacy Permissions. For Skype for Windows 10 & 11 (version 15) and Mac OSX Mojave (10.14 or higher) users, you must grant Skype permissions to use your desktop microphone and camera.
      • Skype for Windows 10 & 11 (version 15): 
        - Go to Start, then select the Settings gear > Privacy > then select either Microphone or Camera. Under both, make sure that Skype is toggled On. Restart Skype and go to your Skype Audio & Video Settings to verify the correct device is selected within Skype.
        Learn more about fixing microphone problems or if your camera doesn't work in Windows 10 or Windows 11.
      • Mac OSX Mojave (10.14 or higher): 
        - Go to Mac System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy Tab > Microphone/Camera and grant access to Skype.

        For additional information: Check out this article if you need help managing your audio and video settings in Skype on desktop.
    • Check your microphone, speakers or headphones. Make sure they are plugged in and not muted. If it is a Bluetooth device, be sure it is connected as well.
    • Check your camera. Make sure your camera is on, pointing towards you and there’s nothing obstructing it. From within Skype on desktop, go to your profile picture > Settings > Audio & Video Settings > Under Video, check to see if your video is showing a preview for your camera. 
      Note: For Skype for Windows 10 & 11 (version 15) users, make sure your webcam meets the minimum requirements for Windows Store apps.
    • Make a free test call in Skype. The test call prompts you to record a message and then plays it back for you - it's the easiest way to see if there's an issue with your audio settings. From within Skype on desktop, click on your profile picture > Settings > Audio & Video Settings > Make a free test call.
    • Do you hear the echo of your own voice? The problem may be with the device of the person you're calling. Ask them to turn down their playback volume.
    • Check your audio. Try playing a song or using another application with sound and test your volume. If you can hear it, the problem may be with the other person on the call - ask them to follow these steps too.
    • Check the manufacturer’s website. With so many brands and devices, there may be several reasons why something may not work. Each brand is different, so it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s website for user guides or troubleshooting help.
    How do I resolve audio and video issues for Skype on mobile?

    Here are a few things to check: 

    • Skype needs your permission to access the microphone and camera of your mobile device. Check out the following articles about granting Skype permission to use your microphone and camera on iOS and Android.
    • Check your microphone, speakers or headphones. Make sure they are plugged in and not muted. If it is a Bluetooth device, be sure it is connected as well.
    • Check your camera. Make sure your camera is on, pointing towards you and there’s nothing obstructing it.
    • Make a free test call in Skype. The test call prompts you to record a message, and then plays it back for you – it’s the easiest way to see if there’s an issue with your audio settings. How to make a test call.
    • Do you hear the echo of your own voice? The problem may be with the device of the person you're calling. Ask them to turn down their playback volume.
    • Check your audio. Try playing a song or using another application with sound and test your volume. If you can hear it, the problem may be with the other person on the call - ask them to follow these steps too.
    • Check the manufacturer’s website. With so many brands and devices, there may be several reasons why something may not work. Each brand is different, so it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s website for user guides or troubleshooting help.
     

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