Features of Skype
Skype offers a number of features based around calling (both free and paid), messaging (including instant, voice and text messaging (SMS)), video chat, and file and screen sharing. The following is a partial list of Skype's features:
Skype allows users to send instant messages to other users in their contact list. Messages sent to offline users are stored on Skype servers and will be delivered to their recipients as soon as they come online on Skype. Chat history along with the message status will be synchronized across all user devices supported by Skype whenever the user signs in with the same Skype account.
Although Skype allows sending SMS messages, it is not possible to receive SMS messages on Skype so users need a different way to receive responses to the messages they send using Skype. This has been a cause of angst among user who purchase Skype as an alternative to a mobile phone because Microsoft will not refund any purchases even for users who discover this missing feature only after purchasing multi-year contracts. Other than in user complaints on the Microsoft Skype forums, there is no mention on Microsoft or Skype websites that when they say "Send SMS messages," that is just what they mean: users can send but they cannot receive SMS messages.
Skype keeps user instant messaging history on user’s local computer, and on Skype’s cloud for 30 days. Users cannot control how long their chat histories are stored on Skype’s servers but can configure that option individually for every their device. Once user signs into Skype on a new device the conversation history is synced with Skype’s cloud and stored locally. Skype allows users to remove or edit individual messages during one hour after sending; this affects messages already received by chat interlocutors as well as not delivered to them yet. Skype allows users to delete all saved conversation histories for the device.
Users can send about 254 emoticons that are displayed either statically or animated, depending on user's settings. There are also hidden emoticons, 241 flags and 63 other. On special occasions, Skype introduces featured emoticons that are later either left as standard (anger), left as hidden (mooning) or removed (captain). Sending an empty message is not possible.
Formatting text is possible: *text* creates bold text, _text_ creates italic text, {code} text {code} applies monospace font and ~text~ creates strikethrough text. Writing @@ at the beginning of a message will disable any formatting in the message. Placing two exclamation points and a space (!! ) at the beginning of a message will send the entire message in monospace font. A more convenient way to disable formatting for small pieces of text, is to use ```text``` instead of {code}text{code}. Turning off formatting permanently can be achieved with the command .
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