Microsoft and Signal Introduce End-to-End Encryption in Skype

The new Private Conversations feature is now available in Skype Insider version 8.13.76.8.

On Thursday, January 11, Microsoft and Open Whisper Systems (the developer behind Signal) announced a partnership to bring end-to-end encryption to Skype. The new feature, called Skype Private Conversations, has already been released in Skype Insider builds for testing.

What Is Private Conversations?

Private Conversations is designed to encrypt voice calls and text messages. All images, audio, and video files sent in Skype chats will also be encrypted. Encryption is handled using the open-source Signal protocol, which is also used by Facebook for WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, as well as Google’s Allo. A version of this protocol is also used in the Signal mobile messenger, which is popular among dissidents, whistleblowers, and political activists.

How to Try the New Feature

You can test the new feature right now by installing Skype Insider version 8.13.76.8 for Android, iOS, Linux, Mac, and Windows. To encrypt voice calls, text messages, and shared files, both participants must have Skype Insider installed. Currently, the feature does not support encryption for video calls or group chats.