The Simple Guide to Skype Screen Sharing

Skype Screen sharing guide
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As telecommunications platforms continue to expand their offerings, one feature remains integral to collaboration in the workspace: screen sharing.

If you make use of Skype in your business, there’s a good chance you’ve utilized this feature before, and if not, you should be.

How do you share a screen on Skype?

Skype’s screen sharing function is incredibly easy to use, and it’s activated just by pressing the screen sharing button. If you’re on a mobile device and using the Skype app, it’s done the same way, as there’s a dedicated button for this function there as well.

There are loads of benefits to sharing your screen with others on a Skype call, and the biggest one being ease of collaboration.

If you want to add a new level of engagement to your next meeting, learning the basics of screen sharing with Skype is a good way to get started.

The Benefits of Screen Sharing

Screen share skype

Video calls have become part and parcel of business communications these days, and one way to improve on them is by enabling screen sharing.

Although it’s not always the right time to share your screen, there are benefits to doing so at the right time, so consider what worth these can add to your meetings.

In-depth demonstrations

If you’re trying to sell a product or service and want to share how it works with others, but you’re scattered across the globe, screen sharing can make that happen.

People will be able to watch your screen exactly as you see it so they can enjoy a real-life demonstration of how it all works. This type of product demonstration will keep people more engaged than just sending them a written document on it.

Improved training

Training will be made much easier using screen sharing, and you’ll get more engagement from students with this method.

Whether it’s a software you’re trying to use or a new website, you can show them first-hand how it works, and if anyone has questions on a specific function, you’ll be able to walk them through the steps together.

Easier online meetings

Screen sharing makes meetings more efficient as it lets you show people what you’re talking about, without them having to do a thing.

Rather than having 10 people open a Word document and scroll to the right bit, you can present it on the screen without a hassle, and they can all follow along.

Remote desktops

Although not available with Skype, other video chat platforms also allow for remote access.

This means not only can you share the view of your screen, but you can also invite others to access another computer remotely, and it’s a huge benefit for IT professionals and remote workers especially.

Skype Screen Sharing on Desktop Device

Skype screen share

When you’re sitting at your laptop or computer and need to share your screen with someone, it’s as easy as opening up Skype and pressing a button.

Here are some more detailed steps that show you the whole process to share your screen with others.

  1. Open the Skype software and sign in.
  2. Go to your recent chats or contact list, and find someone that you want to call. Choose either video or audio call, as both options work with screen sharing.
  3. Once the caller answers and you have a good connection, go to the recent chats panel that is still open and look for the Share Screen icon that looks like two squares overlapping and press it. If you close this panel, click on the three dots More Options tab found on the hideaway toolbar, and then click on the Share Screen button.
  4. While it’s implementing, you’ll notice that the share screen function takes over the entire screen. If you have more than one monitor, you can select either of these to share, and then press Start Sharing.
  5. For the duration of the screen sharing session, you’ll note a red box around the screen that’s being shared. This shows you that it’s still visible to the other user.
  6. When you want to disable the screen sharing function, click the Share Screen icon once again. In the pop-up menu, select Stop Screen Sharing. Otherwise, go into the More Options menu and select Stop Sharing from there. Your call will remain connected, so disconnect if needed.

How to Share Using Your Smartphone

Skype screen sharing

Skype has developed an easy-to-use mobile app that gives you most of the functions from its software and browser-based version.

You can easily share your screen using the mobile app on both Android and iOS devices by following these simple steps:

  1. Find the contact you want to call in your list by selecting their name and then pressing the phone icon button.
  2. Once they’ve answered and the call is connected, tap onto the screen to bring up further options.
  3. Select the menu button in the bottom right corner of the screen.
  4. Choose the Share Screen button with the two squares overlapping, click on Skype, and then press Start Broadcast.
  5. The other person on the call will be able to see your screen. You can change apps and keep Skype going in the background so they’re able to view other content as well.
  6. When you’re done with the broadcast, go back to the Skype button and press the Stop Broadcast button. This won’t end the call entirely, so disconnect if you’re finished with the conversation.

Requirements and Restrictions With Skype Screen Sharing

Before you can jump into screen sharing, there are some restrictions and requirements to note, and it requires a solid internet connection to work.

Depending on the operating system you use and what device you’re on Skype with, any of these might apply to you:

Skype for Web

This browser-based platform can be accessed using either Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, as long as you have the latest version of these programs. Chrome will allow screen sharing for version 72 and over, which most people should already be using.

If you are using Skype for Web on Chrome and try to share during a video call, be mindful that Chrome only allows one output at a time, so you’ll be transferred to an audio call while you share.

Skype software for desktops

Mac, Linux, and PC users can download the Skype client for their computer, however, Skype will only allow users to share their screen if they’re operating on the latest version of Skype.

To see if this applies to your computer, check to see what version you’re running and then turn on automatic updates.

Smartphones and Devices

iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touch devices operating on iOS 12 and over will find support with Skype, but only if they have an iPad Air 2, iPad mini 2019, iPhone 6s, or iPod Touch 7th generation or newer smartphone.

The Modern Way to Collaborate

Skype online meeting

With everyone working from home or tuning into virtual events these days, having a tool like screen sharing can make life that much easier.

If you have Skype or any other telecommunication platform that allows screen sharing, it’s worth learning the basics so you can start reaping the rewards as well.

Related Questions

Skype is just one platform that allows you to share your screen with others, but in terms of ease of use, it’s a standout.

If you’re still unsure about screen sharing and what it could mean for your business communications, check out these commonly asked questions and our expert answers to find out more.

Is Screen Sharing Safe?

Sharing your screen through a video or audio call is safe, depending on the platform you’re using to do so, but you need to protect your privacy as well.

Choose a telecommunications platform that has high standards for security, and make sure you don’t have anything open on your screen that you wouldn’t want others to see.

Is Skype Screen Sharing Free?

The screen sharing function on Skype is now free for all users on Windows and Mac computers, as well as mobile devices, including those on free plans.

Originally, Skype charged a fee for this add-on feature, but as of 2014 it has been part of their free services and is available with all video and audio calls.

Why Can’t I Share My Screen in Skype?

If the usual Screen Share icon isn’t available to you on Skype, it’s probably because you don’t have the latest version of the software installed.

To check what version you’re using, open the Skype program, select the Help menu, and then click Check for Updates. If you’re running an older version, it will give you the option to upgrade.

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