How to Customize Virtual Backgrounds in Skype Video Calls

Using virtual backgrounds in Skype video calls is a great way to maintain privacy or just spice up your video chats. With custom backgrounds, you can make it look like you’re calling from the beach, outer space, or anywhere you want!

What Are Virtual Backgrounds?

Virtual backgrounds, also called custom backgrounds, allow you to replace the actual background behind you with an image or video of your choosing during a Skype video call. Your body is overlaid on the virtual background, so it looks like you’re really in that place rather than your actual location.

Virtual backgrounds can be fun backdrops like landscapes or movie scenes. But they also serve functional purposes – if your room is messy or you don’t want others to see your home or office space, throwing on a virtual background keeps prying eyes away.

Skype Virtual Background Requirements

To use custom backgrounds in Skype desktop app video calls, you need:

  • Skype version 8.59 or higher
  • Windows 10 version 1903 or higher, or MacOS 10.13 or higher
  • A computer with a processor that supports Advanced Vector Extensions 2 (AVX2). Check with your computer manufacturer if unsure.

The background replace feature is currently only available on the desktop app, not the web or mobile Skype apps.

How to Set a Virtual Background in Skype

There are two ways to set a custom background – for a single call or as your default for all calls.

For a Single Call

  1. Start a video call in Skype desktop app
  2. Click on the More menu (the 3 dots) during the call
  3. Select Choose background effect
  4. Click Add image and choose a background image from your computer
  5. Your selected image now shows as your background!

For All Calls

  1. Open Skype desktop app
  2. Click on your profile picture > Settings
  3. Click on Audio & Video
  4. Under Choose background effect, click Add image
  5. Select an image from your computer to set as the default background

Now whenever you start a video call, your selected background image will automatically be applied.

Tips for Choosing Virtual Backgrounds

Picking the right virtual background can elevate your video calls. Here are some tips:

  • Use landscape images that match your camera’s orientation. Skype recommends horizontal backgrounds.
  • Make sure the background resolution is high-quality and sized properly to fit your video window. Otherwise it may appear pixelated or stretched.
  • Simple solid colors or subtle patterns make great backgrounds that aren’t distracting.
  • Avoid busy patterns or complex images. You want viewers focused on you, not deciphering your background.
  • Consider backgrounds that represent your brand, company, interests or personality if appropriate.
  • Stay away from backgrounds with faces or text which could be distracting or unprofessional.
  • Custom animated backgrounds are not supported by Skype. Only use still images.

Troubleshooting Skype Virtual Backgrounds

If you’re having issues enabling or selecting custom backgrounds in Skype, try these troubleshooting tips:

Background option missing?

  • Update to the latest Skype version
  • Log out and back into Skype
  • Ensure your processor supports AVX2

Background not changing?

  • Be sure the image resolution is at least 1280×720
  • Some security software can block background changes, try disabling temporarily

Background looks distorted?

  • Select landscapes images that match your camera’s 16:9 orientation
  • Adjust the camera zoom if background appears too zoomed in

Background draining system resources?

  • Simplify the image
  • Try reducing your video call resolution

Get Creative with Virtual Backgrounds!

With the ability to customize backgrounds, Skype video calls become a lot more fun and private. Get creative with stunning landscapes, favorite movie scenes or stylish office spaces. Spark conversations by changing up your background image choices. Just be sure your foreground (you!) stays visible against whichever backdrop you select.

With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at personalizing your Skype video call environments in no time! Ditch that messy bedroom or home office and transport yourself anywhere in the world with virtual backgrounds.