Skype has posted an official v2.8 release of its self-named Mac client, which allows for conversations via VoIP, video and text. New in the update is screen sharing, which can be used to show a Skype contact an entire desktop, or only a select portion in order to preserve privacy. The receiver in the process must only have a video-capable version of Skype.

The release further adds support for Skype Access, used to pay for Wi-Fi hotspots via a Skype Credit account. Chat changes include the ability to sort conversations and set their priority, as well as add people to a chat using a new Quick Add window. Contacts can now be assigned notes, and will hide their profile pictures by default. The software has lastly enabled profile pictures up to 256x256 in size, and Twitter-like mood messages.

Skype is a free download, and requires Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later.