Microsoft’s studio-grade Skype TX for broadcasters is released to manufacturers

Back in April, we reported that Microsoft was targeting broadcasters with the Skype TX, studio grade software “that delivers high quality audio and video output to seamlessly connect broadcast and media productions with people around the world.” Today, Skype TX has been released to manufacturing (RTM) and is demoing the service at IBC in Amsterdam.

RTM is a version of software given to manufacturers to include in their hardware to iron out any additional bugs and optimize the integration. With today’s announcement, Microsoft is also revealing three new hardware partners – NewTek, Quicklink and Riedel.

To recap, Skype TX is a result of Microsoft’s acquisition of long-time partner Cat and Mouse, and means that Skype is making inroads to become better integrated into professional studio setups.

While many broadcasters already use Skype, because this specific product is designed for studios, it supports the HD-SDI formats (a broadcast standard), while video and audio are free from notifications, ads and other annoying pop-ups. Additionally, Skype TX can manage aspect ratio mismatches automatically, and it can handle multiple Skype calls simultaneously.

Skype TX constitutes part of its broader Skype in Media service.

➤ Skype TX