Well this was bound to happen, but this is great news for Alexa and Skype users! Starting this week, you’ll be able to make Skype calls on your Alexa devices. Basically the entire line of Echo devices will have the ability to make voice calls via Microsoft’s VoIP platform.
The Echo Show and its tablet-style screen will also be able to make and receive video calls. In addition to calling your Skype contacts via Alexa, users will also be able to call mobile numbers and landlines using SkypeOut. The feature allows you to call existing contacts or a new number on Skype. You’ll get 100 minutes of free calls per month for two months when you link your Skype account with Alexa.
In order to set up Skype for Alexa:
1. open the Amazon Alexa app on your Android or iOS device.
2. Go to Settings > Communication > Skype.
3. You’ll be prompted to login with your Microsoft account.
4. Once you’ve successfully entered your username and password, you’ll be able to make and accept calls from Skype through Alexa.
The integration of Skype and Alexa, which was promised earlier this year, is just the latest example of Amazon and Microsoft teaming up.
The companies announced a partnership last year to make Alexa and Microsoft’s voice assistant Cortona work together and earlier this year, Xbox One and Windows 10 got Alexa apps.
Want free calls on Skype? Linking Skype to Alexa will get you 100 minutes of free calls per month for two months.