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Coronavirus pits Skype against Zoom, as videoconferencing takes centre stage
Video-conferencing apps are currently experiencing a surge in demand, amidst the Coronavirus pandemic which has forced many companies to resort to remote working.
Downloads of videoconferencing apps have been increasing rapidly since January after the Coronavirus outbreak. However, it wasn’t until March that an exponential download rate was recorded, even as daily active users grew.
At the moment, Zoom and Skype are the most downloaded/used. And while Zoom appears to be benefitting the most from the situation, Skype is hoping to flip the market to its own favour.
In March, Zoom recorded about 26.9 million downloads. On the other hand, Skype only recorded 6.2 million downloads within the same period.
Note that the download ratee for both apps have been projected to keep climbing, as lockdown orders remain in place across the world due to the coronavirus scare.
In the meantime, Skype is taking strategic steps to position itself in the faces of customers, whilst averting further loses to its major competitor.
In a recent tweet, Skype announced the launch of a new product that should interest people. The tweet said:
“Introducing a simple, hassle-free way to connect with the important people in your life on #Skype, no sign-ups or downloads required.”
Introducing a simple, hassle-free way to connect with the important people in your life on #Skype, no sign-ups or downloads required. Learn about Meet Now: https://msft.it/6012TeZKI 58718:00 – 3 Apr 2020Twitter Ads information and privacy425 people are talking about this
Nairametrics perceives this as an indirectly jab at Zoom which requires users to register after downloading the app.The new Skype feature does not require users to register.
Skype the supposed simplicity of its videoconferencing feature will attract more users in the coming weeks.
Note that Skype’s announcement came at a time when Zoom is facing backlash over the security level of its app and privacy issues. Many customers raised concerns about Zoom, with Elon Musk’s SpaceX banning its workers from using the app due to security concerns. Zoom’ founder, Eric Yuan, has since apologised for this.
