Microsoft Corp. announced on Monday Skype TX, a new version of their VoIP service that is designed specifically for professional broadcasters.
The Skype TX system is a combination of hardware and software, and was made specifically to be used in studios, Morning News USA reported.
Skype video calls from around the world can be made in any broadcast or production. The systems hardware is able to produce call output in full frame HD-SDI formats with balanced audio, as well as sending back HD-SDI videos with balanced audio to the caller.
Microsoft shared its confidence in Skype TX in its official blog post, TECHI-E NEWS reported.
"Today, we're excited to announce a new solution for broadcasters from Skype, available in the coming year," the company said. "This improved offering is a result of Skype's recent acquisition of our long-time broadcast partner Cat and Mouse. We've built on the existing Cat and Mouse technology to deliver a high quality hardware and software Skype integration direct into a studio environment."
The software allows Skype TX to give full control over screen aspect ratios. Video and audio calls will be able to avoid interruptions with the ability to remove signals, notifications, advertisements and pop-ups that would usually take place during normal Skype calls, Morning News USA reported.
The company looks to make experts on Skype TX available "on hand" to give advice and assistance to broadcasters who use the system. Microsoft said the system is easy to set up.
Skype TX will be included in the Skype in Media offering, TECHI-E NEWS reported. The system will also handle multiple Skype calls at once on one interface.
"Newsgathering is a prime target for Skype TV," said Simon Lucas, principle PM manager at Microsoft. "It greatly simplifies the use of Skype in the newsroom."
Microsoft is requesting Media organizations to sign up to gain more information about the availability of Skype TX, but has not yet released any information about prices.
