The desktop app takes up to 20 seconds longer to download than the Skype Meetings App, but the audio, video and screen-sharing capabilities are more reliable, according to Microsoft. The update means external collaborators will be able to use the desktop app even if their organization doesn't use Skype for Business. To that end, the Skype for Business desktop app for Mac now lets users join meetings as a guest. Instead, those users will be prompted to download the desktop app. In early December, Mac users will no longer have the option of installing the Skype Meetings App when joining a meeting through a web browser. Microsoft to retire Skype Meetings App for Mac users Some will require users to reinstall the app. Microsoft said it would roll out the updates over the next two months. As a result, users assume the audio isn't working. Previously, those users would receive misleading messages, because the cookies stored in their web browser indicated the app had already been installed.Īnother problem Microsoft intends to fix causes the app to sometimes play meeting audio by default through devices or apps that aren't typically what people use for meeting audio. Microsoft also reconfigured its software to recognize when users have uninstalled the app and are attempting to install it again. Microsoft changed its user interface to help people figure out what went wrong if the app doesn't download properly, providing direct links to attempt to install the app a second time or try to join the meeting again. The app downloads in one click and should take less than a minute to install, but glitches can delay the start of meetings. Many businesses rely on the Skype Meetings App when working with external collaborators who don't use Skype for Business. Attempting to enter a Skype for Business meeting through a web browser prompts users to download and install the app.

The Skype Meetings App is what people use to join online meetings if they don't have the Skype for Business desktop app.

Skype download apps